The Latest Releases from PERCY FAITH: The Columbia Singles – Volume 1 (1950-1951)Tzin-Tzun-Tzan; I Cross My Fingers (with Russ Emery); Violins From Nowhere (with Toni Arden); They Can't Take That Away from Me; I Was Dancing With Someone (with Toni Arden); Friendly Star; Goodbye John; If I Had A Magic Carpet; The Loveliest Girl I Know (previously unissued); This Is The Time; Green Grass And Peaceful Pastures (with Andy Roberts); I'm In The Middle Of A Riddle; Norah (with the Shillelagh Singers); A Kiss And A Promise; No One But You (with Johnny Thompson); You Are The One; Zing Zing Zoom Zoom; Come Home (previously unissued); The Circus Day Parade; The Happy Calliope Song; Black Ball Ferry Line; (with the Skylarks); The Wondrous Word Of The Lord (with the Skylarks featuring Les Scott); Always, Always (vocal by Peter Hanley); I Want To Be Near You (vocal by Peter Hanley); When The Saints Go Marching In (featuring the All Star Dixielanders); There She Goes; I Talk To The Trees (vocal by Peter Hanley & The Magic Voices); Would You (vocal by Peter Hanley & The Magic Voices). All tracks not credited with a vocalist feature a chorus. The observant will notice that two of the tracks have never been issued before. (USA) Collectables COL7635.

THE COLUMBIA SINGLES - Volume 2 (1952 - 1958)Festival (with chorus); Da-Du (with chorus); Over The Mountain (with chorus); Rap-A-Tat-Tat (The Dancing Cat) (with chorus); Funny Fellow (with chorus); Little Jumping Jack (with chorus); The Mosquitoes' Parade (with chorus); Everybody Loves Saturday Night (With The Paulette Sisters & Burt Taylor); Rainfall (with Bernie Leighton, Harpsichord); Land Of The Pharaohs; The Rose Tattoo (with chorus); We All Need Love (with chorus); Valley Valparaiso (with chorus); Baby Doll; The Last Dance; What's It Like In Paree? (Vocal By Barbara Manners); Katsumi Love Theme (From "Sayonara"); Never Till Now (From "Raintree County");: Do I Need You (Previously Unreleased) (with chorus);The Stars (with chorus); Somewhere (From "West Side Story") (Previously Unreleased);Maria (From "West Side Story"); The Impala Theme; Indiscreet (From "Indiscreet");Same Old Moon (From "Marjorie Morningstar"); Isle Of Paradise (Sur La Plage); Pyramid Dance (Heart Of Stone) (From "Goldilocks".) This is a superb compilation and, in my humble opinion, worth buying just to have the amazing full orchestral arrangement of Somewhere - awesome, and far better than the version on BROADWAY BOUQUET. Note also that Maria is not the same arrangement as on HOLLYWOOD'S GREAT THEMES. As well as two previously unreleased tracks, other gems are Rainfall, Land Of The Pharaohs and the excitingPyramid Dance - what a pity the maestro didn't record more of Anderson's wonderful music. (USA) Collectables COL7636.

I THINK I LOVE YOU The original album plus 7 selected singlesTheme from "Cactus Flower" (The Time For Love Is Anytime) : Peppermint Hill And Strawberry Lane : Theme For Young Lovers Anytime Of The Year : Theme From "Kotch" : The Godfather Waltz : Emanuelle - The Joys Of A Woman. (USA) Collectables COL7653 – release date 9th November. Alan Bunting

GARY WILLIAMS with The JOHN WILSON ORCHESTRA ‘Alone Together’ Just In Time, Where or When, Why Shouldn’t I, Just One of Those Things, I Remember You, I Get Along Without You Very Well, If I Had You, More Than You Know, You’re Sensational, My Buddy, I’ll Be Around, Time After Time, The End of a Love Affair, They Can’t Take That Away From Me, Alone Together Vocalion Digital CDSA6809, 55:10 minutes. This CD arrived just as we were going to press, so it has been slotted in to this feature literally at the last minute. Which means that space is limited, so the following comments should be regarded as a ‘teaser’ to a feature on Gary that will appear in our next issue. RFS members who saw him with the magnificent John Wilson Orchestra at the Royal Festival Hall in the Spring of 2003 will know that he certainly understands how to handle a song. Other readers will have seen him in various concerts around Britain, and there is no doubt that he is building a strong following of loyal fans. Although Gary often sings songs that are associated with the great stars of the past half century, he doesn’t try to copy them note for note. Sensibly he is developing his own style, and this new CD must surely be the very best thing that he has done to date. He can handle the ballads and swing numbers with the same gentle ease, and it all seems so effortless. Yet in the background there is the strong impression that you are listening to a fine young singer who has worked hard at his craft, and who has a great future ahead of him. His choice of material includes several titles that are lesser known (full marks for that) and it is so pleasing to hear some unfamiliar verses. The CD booklet informs us that the lush orchestrations are by Andrew Cottee – we must find out some more about him. The John Wilson Orchestra perform as brilliantly as always, and this is a superior quality product from start to finish. It should be in the Christmas stocking of everyone who appreciates the finest popular music that is around in 2004. David Ades

ERIC PARKIN plays PARKIN "Nighthawks" Encounters, Moods, Nighthawks, MovietunesShellwood SWCD19. One of our very finest pianists has made numerous recordings of the music of many great composers, so it is good to be able to hear a new CD entirely devoted to his own creations. In his booklet notes Eric Parkin explains that the paintings of Edward Hopper have fired his inspiration for the eight titles in the ‘Nighthawks’ section. Some of the artist’s atmospheric paintings of American life are reproduced, displaying the boredom and loneliness that can permeate life. ‘Encounters’ was prompted by the sight of passengers coming and going at the Channel Tunnel train terminal at London’s Waterloo station. ‘Movietunes’ recalls the late Christopher Palmer, whose work resulted in the rediscovery of so much fine film music, and introduced Eric Parkin in particular to the works of Miklos Rozsa. Finally ‘Moods’ is affectionately dedicated to Robert Farnon. Eric explains that Bob has always encouraged him to write down his improvisations, and there are plans for all these eight works to be published in due course. There is so much to enjoy in this magical collection, and piano lovers shouldn’t hesitate to acquire it. David Ades Shellwood CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.

MANTOVANI & HIS ORCHESTRA AND THE MIKE SAMMES SINGERSKismet Overture, Sands Of Time, Rhymes Have I, Baubles, Bangles And Beads, Not since Nivevah, Stranger In Paradise, He’s In Love, Gesticulate, Night Of My Nights, Was I Wazir?, Rehadlakum, And This Is My Beloved, The Olive Tree, Zubbediya, Samaris Dance, Finale Act II Vocalion Decca Archives CDLF 8104 Back in 1964 this was, apart from original cast theatre recordings, Decca’s first serious excursion into the realms of the musical. The score by George Wright and George Forrest, both of whom attended the Kingsway Hall recording, is based on the splendid music by one of the most naturally gifted of all Russian classical composers, Alexander Borodin. Obviously nothing was spared in production and the cast list is impressive: Robert Merrill, Adele Leigh, Kenneth McKellar, Ian Wallace [how good to hear him again] and Regina Reznik. The first named is very much the singing star of the show. Nevertheless, Mantovani is clearly in charge as he shows in the Overture; his direction bringing plenty of sparkle as well as sumptuousness. The orchestra’s strings contribution to Stranger and Beloved demonstrates that old spine-tingling factor. The sound throughout is as highly spectacular as one might expect from a good Phase 4 recording, with just the occasional touch of over-modulation, and the album is an unexpected and most welcome addition to this label’s growing inventory of the great man’s re-issues.

Peter Burt

GUILD LIGHT MUSIC

full tracklistings in JIM 160 & 161

GLCD 5106 – THE GOLDEN AGE OF LIGHT MUSIC – 1930s

GLCD 5107 – CHARLES WILLIAMS & THE QUEEN’S HALL LIGHT ORCHESTRA

GLCD 5108 – BRITISH CINEMA AND THEATRE ORCHESTRAS

GLCD 5109 – LIGHT MUSIC FROM THE SILVER SCREEN

GLCD 5110 – MANTOVANI – BY SPECIAL REQUEST

Although a substantial number of Light Music CDs have become available in recent years, none have exclusively concentrated on pre-1940 recordings; this in contrast to the many re-issues of Dance Band, Jazz and other music of that era. However, the gap has now been admirably filled by two of these new releases. The 1930sCD combines a good mixture of well-known favourites, eg The Glow Worm Idyll, March of the Bowmen, (a particularly spirited performance), Butterflies in the Rain, etc, with some very interesting – albeit less familiar – pieces by British, American and European composers and orchestras. Good examples of these are the Overture – The Immortals by Reginald King, (a very rare recording which I understand was ‘unearthed’ by an overseas RFS member), and the Overture from the Dance Suite by Kunneke. British Cinema and Theatre Orchestrasconsists of recordings all made between 1931-39, and features some notable conductors, including Geraldo, Richard Crean, William Pethers, Joseph Muscant, Alfred Van Dam and Hyam Greenbaum; the last mentioned became first musical director of the BBC Television Orchestra in 1936. Much of the music will be immediately familiar and emanates from a distinguished line-up of composers, including Jerome Kern, Cole Porter, Vivian Ellis, Albert Ketelbey and Rudolf Friml. With a generous running time of over 78 minutes spread over nineteen tracks, this is a most attractive collection. A further trio of CDs returns us to the 40s and 50s. Charles Williams and the Queen’s Hall Light Orchestra contains items from the early Chappell library, and with few exceptions the recordings are appearing commercially for the first time – there is little duplication between this and previous QHLO offerings from other companies. It is good to see and hear the two Charles Shadwell compositions, ditto the Percy Fletcher, Montague Phillips, and John Holliday pieces. In Light Music From the Silver Screen, we have another selection of absolute gems. During WWII, a good many ‘epic’ movies were produced, and these often featured a comprehensive musical score with a big theme – eg the famous "Denham Concertos". After the war this trend continued and the collection here includes music from films which appeared between 1946-1953. The roll-call of composers and conductors includes such luminaries as Robert Farnon, Sidney Torch, Charles Williams, Ron Goodwin, Philip Green, Muir Matheson and George Melachrino. From the pen of the latter, Vision d’Amour(from the film Woman to Woman) subsequently became part of a suite, Sketches from Life, with the alternative title, Loving. The 22 tracks will surely stir many memories and be a great delight to aficionados of film music from a relatively short-lived golden age during the immediate post-war period. And so to the final CD in this group – Mantovani by Special Request. Annunzio Paulo Mantovani was one of the great figures in the 20th century music scene. He was active from the beginning of the 1920s, an era when Radio and Gramophone Records were becoming a major force in home entertainment. By the 30s he had established his Tipica Orchestra, which was destined to become extremely popular. After the war, it evolved into an enlarged concert orchestra, and with the essential help of arranger Ronald Binge, he went on to sell literally millions of records worldwide. This compilation comprises tracks which have not previously appeared on re-issue CDs; these all date from between 1944-53 and in many cases have been included at the suggestion of Mantovani admirers, hence the CD’s title. Some of the pieces have an obvious thirties flavour, whilst others have an interim style, before the definitive ‘Mantovani sound’ which took off in the early/middle fifties. As with most of the GUILD CDs, there is a lot of material here that previously has not been heard in a long time, but once again will certainly jog a lot of memories! Having spoken at length to David Ades and Alan Bunting about the preparation of this series, I am well aware of the dedication and much ‘midnight oil’ which has gone into the realisation of these CDs. The sound quality is mostly of such a high standard that it has me searching around for new superlatives – it is difficult to believe just how old some of the recordings actually are. The results speak for themselves – these five new releases are worthy successors to the previous five, and are unreservedly recommended as definite ‘must haves’ And there are yet more to come…!Tony Clayden

FRANK CHACKSFIELD & HIS ORCHESTRA Beyond The Sea Track listing in JIM 160 The New Limelight Limelight Theme, The Man That Got Away, In The Still Of The Night, Scarlet Ribbons, Smile, Tonight, Theme from "Picnic" introducing Moonglow, Come Rain Or Come Shine, Night And Day, Here I Am, "Warsaw " Concerto Decca 475 614-9 At long last Decca have got around to transferring some of their famed Phase 4 LPs onto CD. And in 2-on-1 packaging, too. Trouble is with the first album here, Mike Dutton has beaten them to it by a matter of weeks [see my review last time]. There are some fine tunes on the second album and a good version of the concerto. The sound is brilliant and reasonably atmospheric, and this coupling may appeal – if you’ve not already bought the Vocalion. A pity about the duplication when there is so much other good stuff from Chacksfield still denied us. Peter Burt

MAURICE LARCANGE Accordion MICHEL LEGRAND – What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life, The Summer Knows, Windmills Of Your Mind, etc ; CHARLES AZNAVOUR Dance In The Old Fashioned Way, Yesterday When I Was Young, She, etc… with Roland Shaw Orchestra Vocalion CDLK4268, 76:39 mins. Back in the 1970s Decca recorded at least four Phase-4 LPs featuring the French accordionist Maurice Larcange. I cannot recall having heard them previously, but have to admit that the first two – now available on this new Vocalion CD – have come as a very pleasant surprise. Each LP is a tribute to a leading French composer, and it seems likely that most of the tracks have been arranged by Roland Shaw. For the Legrand LP Decca gave him the London Festival Orchestra and Chorus, and the spectacular sound right at the start of the CD alerts you to the fact that this is certainly not the kind of accordion music that used to be performed by various ensembles back in the 1930s! Here the accordion is used as a feature within the large orchestra, somewhat similar to the sounds which sometimes feature in recordings by Mantovani or Frank Chacksfield. The Aznavour selection has a slightly smaller ensemble (probably around 30 players), which seems to suit the composer’s style better. After a while you tend to forget that this is actually meant to be an ‘Accordion CD’ – in the hands of Maurice Larcange it simply becomes a part of the orchestra, and as far as I am concerned he produces some beautiful sounds. Perhaps this may not appeal to purists who prefer their orchestras in the traditional style, but I suspect that many people who are prepared to buy something a little different for a change may well enjoy it as much as I do. David Ades

JOHN PHILIP SOUSA – MUSIC FOR WIND BAND – Volume 5 Marches: The Minnesota March, The Thunderer, The Pride of the Wolverines, University of Nebraska, The Gallant Seventh, Powhattan’s Daughter, George Washington Bicentennial, The Diplomat, The Directorate, Our Flirtation, Sabre and Spurs, The Atlantic Pageant. Suite: Cubaland. Waltz: The Charlatan Waltzes. Band of the Royal Artillery conducted by Keith Brion NAXOS 8.559131 59.00mins.The sessions for Volume 5 of what is promised as the complete edition of Sousa’s complete works for wind band herald a return to the Blackheath Concert Halls. This is a disc full of rarities as with the almost solitary exception of the 1889 march The Thunderer most of the remaining titles here will be unfamiliar to the general non-specialist collector. However, the innocent ear, listening to the opening item here The Minnesota March, would probably have no great difficulty in guessing the identity of the composer since it is full of his characteristically flamboyant style and mannerisms.Of particular interest is the three movement Cubaland Suite each section of which reflects the changing government of this Caribbean country complete with appropriate national melodies. The Charlatan Waltzes from Sousa’s 1898 operetta are full of charm and would not have disgraced those of Parisian Waltz King Emile Waldteufel. On a somewhat more poignant note Keith Brion mentions in his notes that the George Washington Bicentennial march of 1930 was first played under Sousa’s baton at an impressive ceremony at the Capital Plaza in Washington in February 1932 just a month before the ‘March King’s’ death. Apparently The Diplomat was one of Sousa’s personal favourites but as far as this collection goes the palm for me goes to the 1918 march Sabre and Spurs the trio of which replicates the hoof beats of mounted horseman and makes felicitous use of the xylophone.In sum there’s some wonderfully ebullient, invigorating music here brimming with joie de vivre calculated surely to bring a smile to even the most dour curmudgeon. Recently a CD review magazine described the Royal Artillery Band as ‘a top notch ensemble’ and who would dare to argue with that? Super sonics and super budget price!Incidentally this fifth volume has been released in honour of the sesquicentennial of Sousa’s birth in 1854. Roger Hyslop

DEBBIE WISEMAN: Original soundtrack score for the film "Arsène Lupin" Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Crouch End Festival Chorus conducted by Debbie Wiseman (France) EMI 8636282. In her booklet note, Debbie Wiseman describes this film as "a movie that every film composer dreams of scoring. A film full of action, suspense, mystery, drama, humour and romance." Which just about covers every human emotion, so it would have to be a very special composer that the producers would entrust for such a work. It is a measure of Debbie’s high standing in the film world, that she should have been engaged for a major foreign film such as this, and it hardly needs saying that the end result is simply superb. Whatever she does, she seems to be able to get beneath the surface of the actions and emotions of all concerned. Thank goodness that modern composers like Debbie are maintaining the very highest standards of film composing. David Ades

JULIUS KATCHEN AND MANTOVANI & HIS ORCHESTRA Gershwin: Rhapsody In Blue/Piano Concerto in F Decca 475 615-9 This album from 1955 is reissued by Decca in a new limited Heritage series celebrating its 75th anniversary. Delighted as I am for the company to be bringing back items from its years of light music pomp, I must admit to being a tad surprised at the choice here. The combination of artists makes the disc something of a collector’s item, and we can hear how Monty handles an 85-strong orchestra, but for the very best versions of these works look elsewhere. Peter Burt

SIGMUND GROVEN, Harmonica Here, There and Everywhere Title tracks, Two Beatles Girls – Eleanor and Michelle, Three American Sketches for Harmonica and Strings, Nordic Night, Midnight in Moscow, Tbliso, Down Under, Theme from ‘The Sundowners’, Yesterday, Gloria, Norwegian Wood, Sentimentango, Adagietto for Harmonica and Strings with The Norwegian Radio Orchestra conducted by John Wilson (Norway) Grappa GRCD4197, total timing 62:00 mins. For many years Sigmund worked closely with the late, great, Tommy Reilly so it is entirely appropriate that he should feature some works closely associated with the maestro in this collection – namely the two tracks from "The Sundowners" arranged by Angela Morley. Some other notable tracks include Sir George Martin’s Three American Sketches and Adagietto for Harmonica and Strings. Sigmund Groven himself is the composer of Nordic Night, Gloria and Sentimentango. This new CD is warmly recommended to everyone who enjoys hearing a harmonica with a full orchestra. David Ades This CD is available from Sigmund Groven, PO Box 5167, Majorstua, N 0302, Oslo, Norway – you can also order by e-mail:

SHIRLEY BASSEY Shirley In the Still of the Night, Let There Be Love, All at Once, For Every Man There’s a Woman, I’m in the Mood for Love, etc… Let’s Face the Music Let’s Fall in Love, Imagination, All the Things you Are, etc… EMI 4 732262, timing 75:32 mins. So many companies are now issuing CDs featuring two LPs, and considering the outcry that always greets any that do not contain the full contents of the original albums, it is surprising that record companies continue to incur the wrath of serious collectors. Two tracks are missing from the second LP, which is all the more disappointing since it features Shirley singing with the great Nelson Riddle. Geoff Love is MD on the first album, and there is plenty of good music to enjoy here. But why, oh why, did EMI have to spoil it? David Ades

RUSS CONWAY Concerto for Lovers Title track, In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning, Love is the Sweetest Thing, I Wish You Love, etc… Pop-a-Conway Hi-Lili Hi-Lo, Elusive Butterfly, Tears, Things, A World of our Own, etc… EMI 4732702, timing 77:20 mins. The first LP in the compilation reveals Russ Conway to be a very pleasant and accomplished pianist, and the superb orchestrations by Tony Osborne (conducting his own orchestra) make this a quality product from start to finish. During his career Russ made several other similar LPs, so what on earth possessed EMI to couple this great LP with ‘Pop-a-Conway’? The publicity describes this as ‘two contrasting albums where Russ proves what a great musician he was’. True, but the transition from the lush music of the first LP, to the brash pop sounds of the second LP, is just too much to take. To be fair, ‘Pop-a-Conway’ is not all bad, but the first track is absolutely dire. By all means, buy the CD just for the first LP with Tony Osborne, but you have been warned about the content from track 13 onwards! To return to the first album, the attractive title track is a Conway composition (under his real name Trevor Stanford), and he also includes a pleasant rendition of David Rose’s Our Waltz. David Ades

VIC DAMONE – The Vic Damone Collection Columbia 5149242. This is a set that I discovered quite by accident, but a quick look at the cover got me interested. The collection includes three CDs, containing 20 tracks each, and boy, are they good! I paid £11.99 which I think is very good value indeed. The tracks feature 1950s recordings with the likes of Percy Faith, Glen Osser, Paul Weston, Camarata and Axel Stordahl – to name but a few. There seem to be very few duplications with the nine other Vic Damone CDs in my collection, except of course for As Time Goes By and the wonderful An Affair to Remember and his superb rendering of On The Street Where You Live which must surely be the bets ever version of this song. I get the feeling that many of the titles were originally ‘B’ sides, but even so they are all very much worth a listed. The tempos vary quite a lot which is good, and Damone’s diction is so good and you are never in any doubt as to what he is singing about. There are no sleeve notes, only listings of all the songs and the dates when they were originally released. What did surprise me on the list, about It Had To Be You, is the comment "contains explicit lyrics"! Really? I never knew – did you? Whilst on the subject of great singers from 50 years ago, I have also bought a new CD called DICK HAYMESin Hollywood on Jasmine JASCD 124. It contains no less than 29 tracks, and they all seem to be the actual soundtracks from his films – thus you also get Vivian Blaine (in "State Fair") and Betty Grable ("The Shocking Miss Pilgrim"). It’s a good CD, even if one has got many of the numbers already, but probably not these soundtrack versions. Alec Hellyer

FRANK SINATRA – The Platinum Collection 3 CDs containing 48 of Sinatra’s greatest Capitol recordings Capitol/EMI 7243 8647602. How good to see a major record company doing full justice to archive recordings by one of its artists. This 3-CD set of vintage Sinatra is attractively packaged, with intelligent (anonymous) booklet notes, plus a good selection of pictures and detailed recording notes – dates, arrangers and conductors. Serious Sinatra fans will already have these tracks on other CDs, but for anyone wanting a representative selection of some of the greatest popular recordings of the last century, this has to be an essential purchase. David Ades

FRANCES DAY (Australia) Frank BristowFBCD122-124. Now this really is something unusual. A three-CD set of almost everything recorded by this amazing artiste who was a household name during the Thirties and the war. Many of the songs are from private collections featuring film soundtracks and live rare ENSA broadcasts. All have been beautifully restored and all 61 tracks are a real pleasure to listen to. Her reception by the troops speaks volumes and when she sings An Englishman Spoke in Grosvenor Square it is easy to see why. Duets occur with, among others, Bud Flanagan and John Mills and among the foot-tapping orchestras are Ray Noble, Percival Mackey, Carroll Gibbons, George Scott-Wood, Ben Frankel, Geraldo, Phil Green, Jay Wilbur, Louis Levy, Henry Hall and Frank Cordell. Price £22.30 (inc. p/p). Frank Bristow's CDs are only available direct from Frank Bristow, 2 Cross Street, Brighton 3186, Victoria, Australia. Many other CDs are listed on Frank's WEB pages: http://www.musicfromthepast.com E-mail: Fax: (03) 9528 3167. Credit cards accepted. Arrangements can also be made for UK customers to send payment to a UK address using a British cheque - ask Frank for details. Peter Worsley

THE FILM MUSIC OF RON GOODWIN 633 Squadron, Frenzy, Lancelot and Guinevere, Deadly Strangers, Battle of Britain Suite, Whirlpool, The Trap, Of Human Bondage, Monte Carlo or Bust, Submarine X-1, Miss Marple Theme, Operation Crossbow, Clash of Loyalties, Beauty and the Beast, Force Ten from Navarone, Where Eagles Dare, Those Magnificent Men in their Flying Machines BBC Philharmonic conducted by Rumon Gamba Chandos CHAN 10262, 76:24 mins. Chandos kindly supplied us with advance information about this release (due out in the UK on 15 November), but we had not actually heard the recording before we went to press. However the previous film music CDs from Chandos by the BBC Philharmonic and Rumon Gamba have been of such a high standard, that we are unlikely to be disappointed. Understandably many of Ron’s ‘big hits’ are here, but there are sufficient differences between this and last year’s EMI tribute to encourage true Goodwin fans to add this to their collections. David Ades

PHIL KELLY AND THE NW PREVAILING WINDS ‘Convergence Zone’Damp brown places, Cuzn bubba luvz, Subztatoot shuffle, Sweet Georgia upside down, Bella Luce, You and the night and the music, Yada Yada, 0. T .B.S. Kathy's waltz, The refrigerator. (USA) Origin 82417, 65:11 mins. This CD just missed the Big Band Roundup but after reading about Phil Kelly in the last issue I thought any fans should not have to wait till the New Year before knowing about it! Phil Kelly has had plenty of experience in arranging - Bill Watrous, Doc Severinson's Tonight show band, Si Zentner, Mel Torme, Buddy Greco, music for over 700 commercials, half a dozen Symphony orchestras, lectured in Film scoring and is one of the coaches at Bud Shank's Centrum Jazz Festival in Port Townsend, one hell of a C. V .! A glance at the track listing shows he also has a way with title twist! The band’s twenty one members includes Pete Christlieb, Gary Smulyan and Andy Martin, three players who always gyrate towards the good sounds. The first track rings subtle tempo changes on the traditional "Camptown races" kick starting the album in fine style. Subztatoot shuffle is seriously "hooky" bouncing all the way through it's seven and a half minutes, the riff owing a little to Gil Evans. Joe Labarbera wrote Bella Luce as a tribute to Conte Candoli, Jay Thomas played with and revered Conte, his poignant trumpet solo reflects their liaison, Phil Kelly introduces strings beautifully on this sublime tune. The album’s other ballad Kathy's waltz is dedicated to Phil's late wife, a song like something breathing close to you, jaw droppingly intimate and wide screen in Kelly's writing. Self produced albums such as this show that Big bands have undergone a renaissance due to musicians dedicated to keeping jazz alive despite being neglected by the mainstream labels. Paul ClatworthyAvailable from www.origin-records.com. In Great Britain: John Killoch. 65, Hundredacre Road, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands. B74 2LB, England.

GERALDO I Bring To You Sweet Music Hello Again, Lady of Spain, Carioca, Deep Purple, etc… featuring vocals by Eve Becke, Al Bowlly, Len Camber, Dorothy Carless, Carole Carr, Archie Lewis and others Living Era CD AJA5558. Geraldo has been fairly well served with CD reissues in recent years – no doubt a reflection of his importance on the British entertainment scene for so many years. This CD contains tracks from 1933 to 1948, so the music and styles vary quite a bit. Alan Bunting has done some fine restorations, and two tracks are of particular interest to readers of this magazine:Getting Nowhere and Sleepy Serenade were both conducted by Robert Farnon at a session on 4 October 1946 when Geraldo was in the USA. David Ades

BBC CONCERT ORCHESTRA Conducted by BARRY WORDSWORTH Sir William Walton: "The Wise Virgins" ballet suite; Constant Lambert: "Horoscope" ballet suite. ASV CD DCA1168. Ballet music is often close to light music, and these two celebrated composers have produced fine 20th century examples of the genre. Perhaps the Walton score is rather on the heavy side, but there are some delicious capricious lighter moments from Lambert. Warmly recommended. David Ades

The Subtle Sound of DAVID SNELL My Favourite Things, I’ll Remember April, They Can’t Take That Away From Me, Take Five, How Are Things in Glocca Morra, Baubles Bangles and Beads, Girl from Ipanema, Surrey With the Fringe on Top, Tenderly, Wives and Lovers, Laura, Fascinating Rhythm, Waltz Song, Get Happy. Vocalion CDLF8110. For many years David Snell was known and highly respected as one of Britain’s foremost harpists, with his wide-ranging repertoire stretching from the classics to jazz-rock. He has also written extensively for recorded music libraries, but today he is mostly in demand for conducting such prestigious orchestras as the London Symphony, Royal Philharmonic and the Orchestre de Paris. David also conducts scores for film soundtracks, ‘Cider House Rules’, ‘Emma’ and ‘Chocolat’ being recent examples. This CD is taken from his 1966 Decca LP which features David mainly as soloist, but there is some occasional discrete percussion, and a sax and trumpet appear on a few tracks – but no credits appear in the booklet. Here’s some quality playing that will add a touch of class to your collection! David Ades

GENIUS LOVES COMPANY - RAY CHARLES duets Here we go again, RAY CHARLES with NORAH JONES; Sweet potato pie, with JAMES TAYLOR; You don't know me, with DIANA KRALL; Sorry seems to be the hardest word, with ELTON JOHN; Fever, with NATALIE COLE; Do I ever cross your mind? with BONNIE RAITT; It was a very good year, with WILLIE NELSON; Hey girl, with MICHAEL McDONALD; Sinners prayer, with B.B.KING; Heaven help us all, with GLADYS KNIGHT; Over the rainbow, with JOHNNY MATHIS; Crazy love, with VAN MORRISON. EMI 7243 86654021, 51:42 mins. This type of album seems to be all the rage lately but as it is Ray's last recording it deserves attention! Just one look at the songs and his collaborations shows it covers most of his ventures in different styles of music - a mixed bag indeed! A massive host of session men are used, five with a small group, seven with full orchestra. The orchestral tracks have five scored by Victor Vanacore, a writer I will be on the look out for in the future. His arrangement on "Hey girl" is particularly beguiling and his other four come close seconds. A "Motown" veteran David Blumberg adds some delectable strings to Diana Krall's collaboration. Blues and soul fans will love this album and out and out pop and jazz fans will also find much to savour. Paul Clatworthy

CHRISTOPHER GUNNING Concerto for Piano & Orchestra; Storm; Symphony No 1. Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra conducted by the composer (USA) Albany TROY 686. If you like atmospheric music then you will enjoy this CD. Gunning is known mainly as a film and TV composer so it is hardly surprising that his concert works are lighter rather than heavy. So much the better for those who enjoy contemporary tuneful sounds rather than unrelated and discordant squeaks, bangs and whistles. Albany has a reputation for championing the former so if you like atmospheric and serious, as well as light music, then this will suit you well. Picture a mixture of Britten and George Lloyd, then stir it up with Charles Williams’s film music and you will not be far off the mark. Peter Worsley

NORTHERN SAXOPHONE QUARTET The Cowles Collection Foxglove Audio FOX088. The invention of the compact disc has made it possible for many composers and performers to issue their own material which, for a variety of reasons, may not have attracted the attention of major record companies. Possibly this CD is a case in point, but that is not to infer any criticism of the music or the talented performers. Indeed the Northern Saxophone Quartet is highly respected, and their members perform the works of Colin Cowles with polish and enthusiasm. Formed in 1980, the quartet often plays overseas, and they are accompanied on harpsichord by Alan Cuckston, who is probably the leading exponent of the instrument. The English composer Colin Cowles (b. 1940) is recognised for his understanding of saxophones in the ‘straight’ style – perhaps not easy to put into words, because his music covers many moods and the CD booklet description ‘homogenous chamber medium’ might confuse some! The repertoire tends to be more ‘serious’ than ‘light’, but any readers who want to explore unfamiliar works for the saxophone could well be pleasantly surprised. David AdesThis CD is available for £10.50 (UK postage included) from: Cottage Harmony, Keens Barn Cottage, Keens Lane, Othery, Somerset, TA7 0PU, England.

ALEX HASSAN ‘Taking a Chance on Love’ – the complete 1939-40 Popular Piano Solos of VERNON DUKE We’re Having a Baby, Autumn in New York, Jack and Jill, New York Nocturne, April in Paris, Midnight Lullaby, etc… Shellwood SWCD29. Readers will not need reminding that Shellwood specialise in piano recordings, and they continue to come up with fresh and appealing ideas. Once again it is the turn of Alex Hassan to take centre stage, with an intriguing collection of works by the great American composer Vernon Duke. Although published as piano solos over a two-year period, the songs actually date from 1929 onwards. Not every one will be familiar, but they are all enjoyable.David Ades

‘SECRET ELLINGTON’ previously unrecorded compositions by DUKE ELLINGTONYou are beautiful, They say, This man, Only yesterday,I like singing, Full of shadows, New shoes, I am lonely, I get lonely for a plaything, You walk in my dreams, Big white mountain, My homelies quiet.True Life TLE 100002, 65:46 mins. Four different arrangers, twenty musicians but even with such an input you can understand why it never made Broadway! You will not end up humming the tunes and the lyrics are sometimes painfully inept (writer Herb Martin). A lot of hard work, money, talented players all mostly wasted! If Ellington had arranged his songs and used his Orchestra the result might have been different; we will never know. Herb Martin and playwright Henry Miller got together in the early 1990's to revamp the show to fit in with the Harlem of 1920; I hope they end up with a more likely hit! Where the instruments are let loose without the handicap of the words the music has its moments such as the fast tempo used on the first track and the gentle "Bossa" beat of "This man", elsewhere, not so hot! No wonder it has been secret for so long. Paul Clatworthy

BRITISH LIGHT OVERTURES Volume 2: Plymouth Hoe (John Ansell); Overture 125 (David Gow); Farnham Festival Overture (Sir Richard Rodney Bennett); The Moor of Venice (William Alwyn); A Scots Overture (John Gardner); The Lamprey (Michael Gryspeerdt); Scaramouche (Peter Hope); A Cleveland Overture (Anthony Hedges); A Snowdon Overture (Gareth Glyn) Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland Sanctuary Group White Line CDWHL2137, 62:54 mins. While the nautically jolly Plymouth Hoe will be familiar to many, the other splendid overtures on this new CD will not. David Gow’s 125 was written to launch British Rail’s new high speed train in 1976; Richard Rodney Bennett’s offering is self explanatory; William Alwyn’s Moor of Venice began as a brass band piece before Philip Lane orchestrated it; while John Gardner’s original work was in honour of wartime RAF Fighter Command before being rescored for the 1954 Proms. Michael Gryspeerdt was a doctor by profession but played in the Gloucestershire Symphony Orchestra which often repaired to The Lamprey pub near Gloucester Cathedral while Peter Hope needs no introduction, nor does Anthony Hedges whose Cleveland Overture is related to Hull University where he was domiciled for many years. Welshman, Gareth Glyn lives on Anglesey and looks out to Snowdonia so it is easy to see where he obtained his inspiration. All the music is in the best British Light Music tradition and well worth purchasing. Peter Worsley

I have, alas, one or two serious misgivings about the makeup of this CD, bearing in mind the title British LIGHT Overtures. I can well imagine some impulse purchasers being misled into thinking that they are going to enjoy an hour or so of tuneful undemanding music which, for the most part, this recording doesn’t deliver. William Alwyn’s The Moor of Venice for example, has a particularly grim and doom-laden scenario which is fully realised in the music and could in no way be categorised as ‘light’. Surely a more accurate generic title (if Sanctuary Classics are going to continue with this series) would simply be ‘British Concert Overtures’. Furthermore the age profile, as represented by the compositional dates of these works is heavily tilted towards the modern with only two pre-dating 1950, one of which fortunately is John Ansell’s splendid, stirring and evocative salt-laden nautical overture Plymouth Hoe. Wonderful to have this at last in first-class modern sound, but for this listener at least leaving most of the remainder on this disc obstinately becalmed and (taking the nautical analogy a little further) outgunned and outranged! The best of the remainder for me was Rodney Bennett’s Farnham Festival Overture which includes skilful use of a piano, and Gareth Glyn’s appealing A Snowdon Overture which displays a charm and lyricism lacking in most of the remaining tracks, which I cannot imagine returning to very often. Playing time is somewhat miserly and there would have been ample room at the end for Ansell’s companion nautical overture The Windjammers, referred to in Philip Lane’s notes, and bringing about perhaps a satisfying concluding symmetry to this disc. Recording and performance are first rate, and if you think the contents will appeal to you don’t be put off by the strictures of a curmudgeonly reviewer. Incidentally, isn’t it about time that such significant figures of the past as Percy Fletcher, Montague Phillips, Haydn Wood, etc are represented in this series, assuming the compiler(s) can become a little less obsessed with ‘modern’? It would considerably increase the attractiveness and saleability of this series, and certainly I would have passed by Volume 2 had it not been for Plymouth Hoe! Roger Hyslop

JOHNNY DOUGLAS ORCHESTRA I won’t dance, Yesterdays, A fine romance, The Carioca, They can’t take that away from me, The way you look tonight, I’m putting all my eggs in one basket, etc.. (22 tracks taken from the Decca LPs ‘Cheek to Cheek’ & ‘A Handful of Stars’ Dulcima DLCD118, 73:42 mins. Many of us will recall these two Decca LPs from over 45 years ago with pleasant memories. Johnny Douglas’s own arrangements have a bright, fresh sound that won him many admirers back in the 1950s, and this welcome reissue on his own Dulcima label will please many readers of this magazine. The LPs date from 1955 and 1957, so they were just too early for stereo, but the original tape masters still sound fine. To fit both albums on to one CD, it has been necessary to omit Like Someone in Love and How High the Moon from ‘A Handful of Stars’. Just one slight disappointment: the CD booklet doesn’t say anything about Johnny’s distinguished career. Maybe he was too modest! As you will have read elsewhere in this issue, sadly Johnny died on Easter Sunday, 20 April, so this CD will serve as a lasting tribute to his talent as a superlative arranger of popular songs. David Ades Dulcima CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £13 [US $26] each.

BRITISH STRING MINIATURES Volume 2: Set of Act Tunes and Dances (Henry Purcell); Serenade for the Birthday of Frederic Delius (Peter Warlock); Air and Dance (Delius); Serenade (Matthew Curtis); Suite – The Spanish Lady (Sir Edward Elgar); Serenata Concertante (Philip Lane) Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland Sanctuary Group White Line CDWHL2136. You may not hear this music played regularly on BBC Radio 3 which shows it must be good! It is a delightful light string music CD of the highest calibre, both ancient and modern(ised). Gareth Glyn’s characteristic Anglesey Sketches tell the story of different parts of the island in North Wales where the composer resides.Particularly pleasant are the scherzo Cemaes,reflecting exuberant summer beach activities while the elegy Moelfre,conjures up the hundreds of lost souls down the centuries whose ships foundered on this dangerous rocky coastline. Matthew Curtis and Philip Lane prove that modern serious string music can be thoroughly enjoyable while the rest of the disc can easily be guessed from the style of the well-known composers listed. Peter Worsley The Sanctuary Group White Line series of CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £10 [US $20] each.

CHARLES WILLIAMS ‘Radio and Television Memories No. 2’ Devil’s Galop, Girls in Grey, The Old Clockmaker, Quiet Stroll, Voice of London, High Adventure, Rhythm on Rails, Starlings, Young Ballerina, Pioneer Trail, Trolleybus, Model Railway, Great Day, In a Hurry, Summer Garden, Follow That Car, Sports Galop, Workroom, Full Speed, Ten Days’ Leave, Night Boat to Duiblin (film theme), Alf’s Button Afloat (film music), SOS, Searchlight, Convoy Attack, Barrage, Naval Action, Commandos, Said the Bells, Atlantic Brakers, War in the Jungle, Sons of the Air, March Winds, Storm on the Moors, Seaford Head, Drummer Boy, Speedway Galop and The Falcons Charles Williams and his Concert Orchestra, Queen’s Hall Light Orchestra, etc. THIS ENGLAND CR3. As many readers will know, a new CD of Charles Williams’ compositions was recorded in England earlier this year, and its release is eagerly awaited. But This England magazine has just got in first by issuing the first commercial CD devoted entirely to compositions by this master of Light Music, which will delight his many admirers. The CD (and cassette) coincide with an article on Charles Williams in the spring 2003 issue of Evergreen (the sister magazine of This England). The CD is full of radio and TV themes, such as "Dick Barton – Special Agent", BBC Television Newsreel, "Jennings at School", Farming, "Friday Night is Music Night", "Top of the Bill", "Dan Dare", television interludes and others. There are also two rare film soundtracks – from "Night Boat to Dublin" (1946) and a 1938 Crazy Gang Film "Alf’s Button Afloat"; predictably the sound quality is only average and the extracts are brief, but the second film is notable for chase music which Williams must have used later as the basis for his Devil’s Galop. These two tracks alone make this CD a real collector’s item. Keen Williams fans will probably have many of the other tracks, and the need to choose items that are out of copyright (more than 50 years old) means that the compilers have had to resort to a number of less well-known short mood music pieces from the Chappell Recorded Music Library of the 1940s. Readers who have previously purchased CDs from This England will know that they are lovingly produced by real enthusiasts. The gloss of the major record companies may be missing, and expensive sound restoration is beyond their reach. Having said that, the sound quality here is perfectly acceptable, with only occasional surface noise evident, and it has to be recognised that this may well be a ‘plus’ factor for some collectors who value authenticity. This release is strongly recommended as a slice of English Light Music history. The only thing lacking is precise information of the recording source and the actual orchestra playing on each item. David Ades This CD is only available direct from Evergreen Melodies, PO Box 52, Cheltenham, GL50 1YQ, England – tel. 01242 515156 or online at The CD costs £8.95 including postage; a shorter cassette version is available for £7.50. Overseas members should enquire about extra postage costs.

MUSIC OF LECUONA Siboney, Danza Iucumi, Jungle Drums, Gitanarias, Maria my own, Malaguena, Always in my heart, Andalucia, La comparsa, High in Sierra PLACE PIGALLE Domino, Why do you pass me by, At last at last, Autumn leaves, C’est si bon, La mer, Waltz of Paree, Chez-moi, Boom, Mademoiselle de Paris, When the world was young, Au revoir Stanley Black, his Piano and Orchestra Vocalion CDLK4176. The early stereo sound on the ‘Lecuona’ album is quite amazing. Equally exciting are the arrangements, presumably the work of maestro Stanley Black, although he did not generally make known the musicians who must have worked with him on some of his albums. He was so busy in the recording studios and concert halls, that he surely could not have scored all his music himself. The accompanying LP "Place Pigalle" employs much fewer musicians, mainly piano, accordion, percussion and occasionally electronic organ. The result is an atmospheric portrait of the kind of sounds one would love to hear emanating from a smoky French café or bistro, late into the evening. Sadly things are rather different today, but at least Stanley allows us to wallow in our nostalgia for what should be. These are two very different albums, but somehow they are each very satisfying in their own way. You may not want to play the entire CD through in one go, but I suspect that you will get a lot of enjoyment from selecting various portions from time to time, depending upon your mood. David Ades

EVENING IN PARIS Mademoiselle de Paris, Love’s last word is spoken, My prayer, Vous qui passez sans me voir (Why do you pass me by?), Pigalle, La vie en rose, Boom, Ca c’est Paris, J’attendrai, Valentine, Clopin clopant, La Seine, Parlez moi d’amour, Can-can EVENING IN ROME Santa Lucia, Serenade in the night, Mattinata, Luna rossa, Tell me you’ll not forget, Mamma, Come back to Sorrento, La montanara, O sole mio, The echo told me a lie, Catari catari, Vieni sul mar, Anema e core, Funiculi funicular. Frank Chacksfield and his Orchestra Vocalion CDLK4167. This is really Leon Young’s CD, with his glorious arrangements excelling in these timeless interpretations of delightful melodies that still cannot fail to charm. The Chacksfield Orchestra really was a superb ensemble in the 1950s, strongly supported by the Decca sound technicians who were in a class all their own. First issued in 1954 and 1955, these albums just pre-date stereo, but the mono sound is fine and, after all, it is the music that really matters. As far as I am concerned, these interpretations are exactly how I wish to hear this kind of music performed. Rock ‘N’ Roll hadn’t yet fully embarked on the wrecking spree that killed off so many fine orchestras just a few years later. David Ades

NAT KING COLE Love Songs When I Fall in Love, Unforgettable, Very Thought of You, Too Young, Let’s Fall in Love, The More I See You, Stardust, These Foolish Things, etc… 24 tracks EMI 581 5132. I suppose that the only ‘problem’ with compilations such as this is deciding how many duplications you are prepared to tolerate. I haven’t checked in detail, but I should imagine that keen NKC collectors will already possess many of these tracks. However if your collection is currently devoid of this great singer, you could do far worse than purchase this bargain. David Ades

TED HEATH AND HIS MUSIC

Hits I Missed & Al Jolson Classics Vocalion CDLK4168

Great Film Hits & Pop Hits Vocalion CDLK4170

It is difficult to find something new to say about Ted Heath and his Music. His great band contained some of the finest soloists that were around in Britain at the time, and all of his Decca LPs were outstanding in their own way. For example, the idea of a big band swinging Al Jolson hits might sound a bit far-fetched, but Heath certainly gets away with it. And how many band leaders would allow their egos to admit that they had actually missed some hits? Ted Heath fans continue to be very fortunate that so many of his albums are now available in superb remasterings such as these. David Ades

MANTOVANI ORCHESTRA Italia Mia & Verzauberter Klang Aus Germany Vocalion CDLK4173. Just recently Vocalion have been treating us to several Decca albums featuring music from the continent of Europe, each being superb examples of the work of the respective orchestras. Frank Chacksfield with his ‘Evening in Rome’ (CDLK4167) has concentrated more on the popular sound of Italian music from the 1950s, whereas this Mantovani collection veers a little closer to the light classics. The sound and the performance are both stunning, and some readers may be reassured to know that the famous Mantovani ‘cascading strings’ sound is only used very sparingly (Decca probably insisted upon a touch of it here and there). The title track Italia Mia is one of Mantovani’s own compositions. This is the first time it has appeared on CD in Britain: it was previously on CD only in Japan – over a dozen years ago. The second LP was made for the continental market in June 1969, and did not appear in the UK, USA or Japan, so its revival should be of great interest to all Mantovani fans. Somewhat surprisingly, it was released in Australia as "Enchanting Sounds from Germany", but has been unavailable for many years. All of the tracks were big German hits, and many will be familiar to British ears. The German album is slightly more popular in style than theItalia Mia, but both fit nicely together, and this new CD is highly recommended. David Ades

SYDNEY LIPTON ORCHESTRA Sweet Harmony Cocktails for Two, Love is the Sweetest Thing, Love Walked In, Isn’t it Romantic, Dance Little Lady etc. Dancing at Grosvenor House Canadian Sunset, It’s Been a Long Long Time, Five Minutes More, Sioux City Sue, My Baby Just Cares for Me, Little White Lies, Scatter-brain, You’re Driving me Crazy etc. Vocalion CDLK4175. I suppose an obvious comment to make is that the melodies on this CD are so well-known that other versions of them must already be in the collections of many readers. So it all really comes down to a question of whether or not this style of music is your cup of tea – and I use the term deliberately, because a lot of tea will have been drunk over the years while Sydney Lipton and his Orchestra were performing music such as this at some of London’s most fashionable establishments. Today’s younger record buyers might find this rather quaint, but for those of us with longer melodies it will be a welcome addition to our collections. David Ades

EDWARD GERMANCoronation March and Hymn, Henry VIII - Three Dances, Welsh Rhapsody, Much Ado About Nothing, Bourée and Gigue, Nell Gwynn -Three Dances, Gipsy Suite - Four Characteristic Dances, Tom Jones -Three DancesBand of the Welsh Guards directed by Major Philip Shannon MBE. Specialist Recording Company SRC 104 69 mins. This is a further instalment in SRC's continuing series featuring CDs devoted to a single British composer and performed by one of our premier military bands - in this case the Welsh Guards. With the notable exception of Marco Polo who have included him in their British Light Music Series (No. 8.223419) and issued two volumes of his more serious music (Nos. 8.223695 & 8.223726), Sir Edward German has been largely neglected by the recording companies, so this new SRC CD is particularly welcome. Whilst some of these items have already appeared on the aforementioned Marco Polo album - Gipsy Suite, Henry VIII and Nell Gwynn Dances - none are exactly over-represented in the current catalogue. The attractions of this issue are considerably enhanced by the inclusion of several rarities. The Coronation March and Hymn(for George V’s Coronation) is based on themes from Henry VIII, the excerpts from Much Ado About Nothing are quite delightful and well worth a hearing whilst there are no modern recordings extant of the Tom Jones Dances. Nimble and agile woodwind playing are demanded in many of the faster dance movements and the Welsh Guards are fully equal to the challenges made upon them. Like the Sullivan disc the sessions were taped in the spacious acoustics of the Chapel, The Royal Hospital Chelsea. A very good buy! Roger Hyslop

BILLY MAYERL Vol. 1 Original Recordings 1925-1936 Marigold; Puppets Suite (Golliwog, Judy, Punch); Desert Song (selection); All-Of-A-Twist; Eskimo Shivers; Nippy (medley); Three Miniatures in Syncopation (Cobweb, Muffin Man, Clockwork); Sennen Cover; Jazzaristrix; Virginia Creeper; Limehouse Blues; Mignonette; Three Dances in Syncopation (English, Cricket, Harmonica); Indispensable You; Honky-Tonk; Honeysuckle; Sporting Love (medley); Have a Heart; Hollyhock.Naxos 8.120653.An excellent selection of early Mayerl masterpieces, including selections from two of his rarely heard musicals from the Thirties, Nippy and Sporting Love. Sennen Cove is the splendid full orchestral version conducted by Billy himself, while Ray Noble and Jack Hylton take the baton forHave a Heart and Indispensable You respectively. All the other tracks are solos played at the height of his fame by Mayerl, whose fantastic skills were described in a slow-motion film of the time as "Lightning Fingers". Peter Dempsey has done a wonderful job of remastering, including possibly the first ever piano recordings made by the new electrical process in Britain, namely All-Of-A-Twist andEskimo Shivers on 24th September, 1925. All in all a very good buy at bargain price. Peter WorsleyNaxos CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £5 [US $10] each.

PAUL MAURIAT AND HIS ORCHESTRA ‘The Best of …’ Love is Blue, Puppet on a String, Song for Anna, Les Deux Guitares, Last Summer Day, New York New York, Nocturne, Pearl Fishers, Guantanamera, Jeux Interdits, Those Were The Days, etc… 21 tracks (France) Mercury/ Universal 063 687-2. First of all he wrote the book … now our member Serge Elhaik has penned the booklet notes (in English and French) for this very entertaining and welcome new release. In 1968 Paul Mauriat’s Love Is Blue was top of the charts in the USA for seven weeks, firmly establishing his credentials as a top international conductor. Mauriat is also highly respected as a songwriter and arranger, as his work with the likes of Charles Aznavour and Mireille Mathieu will testify. His later career found him much in demand in Japan, where it is reckoned that he gave at least 1,200 concerts until 1998. The Paul Mauriat Orchestra still continues under Gilles Gambus. This CD presents the maestro in some of his most popular recordings (seven are his own compositions), and it should win him many new admirers. David Ades

THE FILM MUSIC OF RICHARD ADDINSELL Goodbye Mr. Chips; Dangerous Moonlight (Warsaw Concerto); Love on the Dole; Blithe Spirit; The Black Rose; Scrooge; Tom Brown’s Schooldays; The Admirable Crichton; Out of the Clouds (Flame Tango). BBC Philharmonic conducted by Rumon Gamba Chandos CHAN 10046, 79:50 minutes. A real feast of light music for cinema and non-cinemagoers alike. The vast majority of these orchestral masterpieces have been reconstructed by Philip Lane and what a labour of love was that! By listening to the soundtrack over and over again he has recreated the deliberately destroyed scores and put back into the musical repertoire what would surely have been lost for ever. It seems strange to us now that such musical gems were discarded as worthless once the movie had been made but there was so much good music around at the time that it is understandable, if not forgivable. The recordings are first class with the addition of the choirs of both Chetham’s and Manchester Cathedral, plus the piano playing of Martin Roscoe in The Warsaw Concerto. If you remember the films then you will remember the music but even if you are too young it doesn’t matter because the splendid music stands alone. Peter Worsley

While welcoming this release wholeheartedly, it is only right that I should draw readers’ attention to the previous two CDs of Addinsell’s Film Music (ASV CDWHL2108 & 2115). Philip Lane was also involved with both of these, and it is understandable that Chandos would wish to include many of Addinsell’s best-known works, so it is inevitable that some duplications have occurred. However, on this latest release, the only items that may already be in the hands of keen collectors are Warsaw Concerto, Blithe Spirit, and Scrooge. This not only serves to illustrate the considerable output achieved by Addinsell, but it should also reassure his admirers that they must not hesitate to acquire this latest release. Full marks also for the excellent booklet. David Ades

…Warsaw Concerto – that seemingly indestructible veteran evergreen – receives from Martin Roscow a performance of genuine symphonic breadth imbuing the piece with a surprising verdant freshness which is very appealing. A highlight for me was the music from Love On The Dole which I found particularly poignant and touching. Rumon Gamba deftly steers the highly accomplished and polished BBC Philharmonic through these scores with unerring sensitivity and complete sympathy. Roger Hyslop This CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £12 [US $24].

MARTIN BÖTTCHER Film Music Unser Haus in Kamerun, Der Fälscher von London, Strasse der Verheissung, Auf Engel Schiesst Man Nicht, Lufthansa-Suite plus 3 bonus tracks (Germany) Peermusic CD 0103. I feel sure that our German members will be familiar with the work of Martin Bőttcher – and rightly so, because his music is inventive and very pleasing. This new CD (conceived by our member Volker Rippe) offers the music from five films, plus three bonus tracks which I suspect were popular singles in the 1960s. The first film Unser Haus in Kamerun has a very pleasant theme, which is attractively arranged in a variety of moods with strings well to the fore. Several of the tracks would stand up very well on their own as fine examples of production music. Der Fälscher von London veers more towards jazz and (presumably!) the seamier side of London night life. A somewhat similar style is evident in Strasse der Verheissung, with nods towards West Coast Jazz and the more blatant pop sounds of the 1960s. Glenn Miller sounds emerge (intentionally) in Auf Engel Schiesst Man Nicht. Then bright holiday sounds take over in the Lufthansa-Suite. This is an interesting collection, with varied styles that prove that the composer can turn his talents towards any kind of mood, as required by the storylines in the films. The CD booklet (in German only) reproduces four film posters – a ‘plus’ point for collectors of film music. Scores such as this deserve to be preserved for posterity. David Ades

TED HEATH & HIS MUSIC Listen To My Music Opus 1; East of the Sun; Bakerloo Non-Stop; Donegal Cradle Song; On Ilkla Moor Baht’at; Baia; London Suite (Chelsea, Whitechapel, Limehouse, Bond Street, Piccadilly, Soho): Deep Forest; Pagan Love Song; You Go To My Head; Dark Eyes; Harlem Nocturne; Song of the Vagabonds; Listen To My Music; Hindustan; Lady Byrd; Sophisticated Lady; Lyonia; Euphoria; Cuban Crescendo; Roumanian Roundabout. Sanctuary Group Living Era CD AJA 5459.Ted Heath lovers will be pleased with this CD which includes Fats Waller’s complete London Suite which was released before the wartime Waller piano solo originals (which were destroyed in the Blitz) were commercially recorded from inferior copies made at the time. All the tracks were mono and made between 1944 and 1950 when Heath was arguably at his peak. The band was initially formed at the behest of the BBC Variety Department for broadcasting purposes only but soon outgrew this role and became Britain’s most famous big band. A fine tribute to a fine set of musicians. Edmund Whitehouse

LEROY ANDERSON – ‘Blue Tango’ Sleigh Ride, Promenade, The Waltzing Cat, The Syncopated Clock, Saraband, Serenata, Jazz Pizzicato … Jazz Legato, A Trumpeter’s Lullaby, Plink Plank Plunk, Horse and Buggy, Belle of the Ball, Blue Tango, China Doll, The Penny-Whistle Song, Fiddle-Faddle, The Phantom Regiment, Irish Suite, Christmas Festival Leroy Anderson and his ‘Pops’ Concert Orchestra Sanctuary GroupLiving Era CDAJA5481, 75:12 mins. This new CD has been compiled by RFS member David Lennick (who is based in Ontario, Canada), so the recording information given in the booklet refers to North America. Which is why all of the 78s are quoted as having Decca catalogue numbers, but this is the US Decca company, not the familiar British one. (To avoid confusion, I feel that there should have been a note in the CD booklet to explain this). In the UK these tracks were issued on Brunswick with completely different catalogue numbers, although the matrix numbers will have been the same. The recordings date from 11 September 1950 to 5 November 1952, and the running order of the tracks simply reflects the sequence in which they were released in the USA (except for the final item). In 2002 Jasmine issued a CD containing the first 16 titles (JASMCD 2580 – reviewed in JIM 152), but these are not all the same performances. (Jasmine gives no recording information whatsoever, and there was insufficient time available to make further investigations before this review had to be ready for the printers. If any readers can shed more light on this, we’ll be pleased to give the relevant details in a future issue). Clearly this new Living Era release is better value because it also contains Anderson’s six-movement Irish Suite plus the longer eight-minute version of his Christmas Festival. For the sake of completeness, I should remind readers that in 1992 MCA Records/Good Music in the USA released ‘Blue Tango -The Original Hit Recordings of Leroy Anderson’ on MSD 35334. This had 20 tracks, although Jazz Pizzicato and Jazz Legato were put on two different tracks, and incredibly separated by four other numbers – clearly the compiler had little regard for Anderson’s original concept. The remaining three ‘extra’ tracks were later works – Forgotten Dreams, Sandpaper Ballet and Bugler’s Holiday. Surprisingly Horse and Buggy was dropped in favour of The Minstrel Boy. The later stereo recordings by Leroy Anderson are on the 2-CD set ‘The Leroy Anderson Collection’ (MCA MCAD2-9815) so there have already been several opportunities for collectors to obtain the composer’s own performances on CD. If anyone reading this review still lacks Leroy Anderson on their CD shelves, then my advice is to choose this latest release which is the best now available. The sound quality is very good (although the trumpets in The Wearing of the Green sound decidedly tipsy!), and these original performances from the beginning of the 1950s stand as the definitive versions. David Ades

BOB HOPE ‘Thanks for the Memory’ Title track, Two Sleepy People, The Lady’s in Love with You, Penthouse Serenade, Put it There Pal, The Road to Morocco, My Favourite Brunette, Beside You, Buttons and Bows, That’s Not the Knot, Lucky Us, Ain’t we Got Fun, Blind Date, Goodnight Irene, Home on the Range, Wing Ding Tonight, Am I in Love, A Four-Legged Friend, Hoots Mon, Chicago Style, The Road to Bali, Merry-Go-Runaround Living Era CDAJA5493, 76:30 mins. British-born Bob Hope has become an American institution, and he had the rare honour of hearing warm tributes paid to him by the US Congress a few years ago when what might be termed a ‘premature’ announcement of his death was made. Assuming that he doesn’t fall at the last hurdle, by the time you read this he will have celebrated his 100th birthday on 29 May, and this new CD is therefore both a timely and a fitting tribute to his rather sparse recording career. Once again, the compiler credits are in the name of ‘our’ David Lennick, so my previous comments (on the Leroy Anderson CD above) about North American recordings details apply here as well. If Bob wasn’t exactly prolific in the recording studios, at least what he did commit to wax was worthy of preservation, proving that he had an astute regard for quality, rather than quantity. On several tracks he is joined by the likes of Bing Crosby, Shirley Ross, Dorothy Lamour, Margaret Whiting and Jane Russell, and there are extra tracks (not listed above) from radio shows and visits to the troops, for which he became something of a legend in World War 2. Bob’s films are represented with numbers from several Roadfilms, plus The Paleface and Son of Paleface – the latter being a rare example of a sequel being better than the original. The gremlins appear to have made mistakes on two track titles, but apart from that minor niggle this is a splendid production in all respects. David Ades All Sanctuary Group Living Era CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £8 [US $16] each.

BEST OF THE FIFTIES Various Artists 6 CD set, EMI GOLD 582 5542. Selling for around £20 this collection ought to be good value, although the music on the 6 CDs would easily fit on to 4. Also EMI are on decidedly dodgy ground with the assertion that these are "original artists … original hits" when many are cover versions by EMI contract artists. As for the 1950s tag, how can you describe Judy Garland’s Over The Rainbow in this way ("The Wizard of Oz" came out in 1939)? This is a very mixed bag, with hardly any instrumental items. Just treat it as yet another compilation: it certainly isn’t an accurate portrayal of the overall music scene in the 1950s as I remember it. David Ades

NORMAN WISDOM ‘The Very Best of …’ EMI GOLD 582 6522. I haven’t listed the tracks because you’d be hard pressed to associate many of the titles with Sir Norman. Missing is his big number (accompanied by Robert Farnon) from the ice show "London Melody" which first made his name, and it would have been nice to have that catchy tune I’d Like to Put on Record from "Trouble in Store" (of course Don’t Laugh at Me is included). Surprisingly absent also are those two classic sides he did with Joyce Grenfell (remember Narcissus?). Norman has a pleasant voice, and he usually had excellent orchestrations backing him. This collection is quite good, but with a little more thought it could have been so much better. David Ades

HUMPHREY LYTTELTON ‘The Best of …’ EMI GOLD 583 2802. This is a 3-CD box set which you should be able to pick up for around £12. I have to admit that my knowledge of Humph’s recordings is limited, so I cannot say if there are any glaring gaps among the 60 titles. It begins with Bad Penny Blues so perhaps the omens are good! Whether or not your own particular favourites are all here, I suspect that few will disagree that this is very good value. David Ades

ADAM FAITH What Do You Want, Poor Me, Someone Else’s Baby etc. 24 tracks.EMI GOLD 583 1132. Pop singers don’t usually get included in this feature, but we know that a number of our readers are keen fans of John Barry, so they may be interested in this new release. Faith’s early successes were distinguished by the pizzicato and strings effects cleverly achieved by John Barry, with a little help from the Abbey Road echo chamber. Thanks to Hit and Miss, the signature tune of BBC TV’s "Juke Box Jury", John Barry was well known to pop fans around 40 years ago, and he certainly helped young Terence Nelhams (aka AF), who died earlier this year on 8 March aged 62.David Ades

ANNE SHELTON The Best of … Let’s Face the Music and Dance, Smoke Gets in Your Eyes, Bridge of Sighs, If I Give My Heart To You etc. 23 tracks. EMI GOLD 584 0152. Anne Shelton has been quite well served with CD reissues just recently, but mainly they have concentrated on her repertoire from the 1940s. This new collection from EMI comes mainly from the 1950s, and it includes a mixture of hits of the day plus a few well-loved standards. Anne was a very good singer, so we mention this for the benefit of her many admirers. David Ades

NATURAL BORN FILLERSBig Beat, Trippin the Blues, Waltz Cool, The Charmer (John Cacavas); Fancy Flutes, Kiddies Corner, Dancing Harp (Roger Roger); Swing Song, Happy Folk, For Deborah, The Waiting Game, The Winners (Roger Webb); Autumn Love (Paul Lewis); The Gentle Touch (Herbert Chappell); Regency Street (Sam Fonteyn); Dancing Youth Waltz (Douglas Gamley); The Storyteller (Harry Rabinowitz); Horn-a-Plenty (Robert Farnon); Like Spring (Steve Race) etc.. 66 tracks Double CD. Total Time 158 minutes Codename Music CMCD1970. "Diamonds are forever" should capture your mind when you see the cover of this well compiled CD of BBC and ITV Daytime Interlude classics from the late 1960’s and 1970’s. You should be mesmerized by the cover alone. On opening this double CD will unfold one primary disc and one secondary disc from schooldays past containing 64 tracks of catchy little pieces of light musical charm played before schools and children’s programmes on TV. Plus two distinctive bonus tracks featuring the primary school’s diamonds music and the secondary school’s diamonds music. The whole school timetable can be fondly remembered here as you listen to well loved and often aired musical miniatures from the world famous Chappell Recorded Music Library featuring enchanting pieces from the pens and pencils of John Cacavas, Brian Fahey, Roger Webb, Gordon Franks and Robert Farnon to name a few. So rustle up your old school kit and make space in your satchel for this little gem from days gone by. Malcolm Batchelor

The thought of 64 Chappell tracks should be enough to tempt many RFS members to buy this great new collection, especially as so many of the numbers will not already be in your collections. Steven Willis is a true enthusiast who has clearly put his heart into this compilation … and it shows! David Ades For full details of how to order this 2-CD set please go back to the full-page advertisement on page 5 of this issue.

ANDRE KOSTELANETZ AND HIS ORCHESTRA – A MISCELLANY. Liza, Laura, Sari Waltz, Vienna City of My Dreams, Falling in Love with Love, Gypsy Love Waltz, Gold and Silver Waltz, Intermezzo, Someone to Watch Over Me, Lady Be Good, Two Hearts in ¾ Time, Empore Waltz, Vilia, Have You Met Miss Jones?, Waltz Dream, Diane, Gypsy Baron Waltz, Love Walked In, You Made Me Love You, Serenade (Pierne ), We Kiss in a Shadow, Bali Ha’i, Moon over Miami, Now is the Hour, Frank Bristow FBCD91 78:30 mins. This is more or less Kosty’s recording career in microcosm, ranging from 12" 78s of anything up to 60 years ago (some of which …the Lehar, Stauss, Kalman, Stolz and Oscar Straus….startes me off as a collector) , on through Rodgers and Gershwin of the mid–forties and on to some early stereo recordings. Those six tracks are hardly typical of the Kostelanetz we admired for something like 30 years, either technically or musically. One, You Made Me Love You is so bad in both respects it’s all one can do to listen to it, but that is only one title out of many. Otherwise this ’Miscellany’ is a typical cross section of Kostelanetz’s’ work in all fields over the years and can be safely recommended. Arthur Jackson

ANDRE PREVIN & DAVID ROSE ORCHESTRA – LIKE BLUE/SONGS FOR YOUNG LOVERS. You and the Blues, Blue Room, Serenade in Blue, Blue Holiday, Blue Again, Like Blue, Black and Blue, Little Girl Blue, Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea, Blue Turning Grey Over You, Blue Subterranean, Born to be Blue, Blame It on My Youth, Young Man’s Lament, You Make Me Feel So Young, Young and Tender, While We’re Young, Too Young to be True, Last Night When We Were Young, Like Young, Younger Than Springtime, Year of Youth, Too Young to go Steady, Love is for the Very Young. Frank Bristow FBCD94 70.30 mins. It must be forty years since I had a Polydor/MGM double LP called " Like Young, Like Blue ", which turned out to be one of those albums one keeps coming back to when all else fails to satisfy. Here is the identical set complete on a very welcome CD from our friend Frank Bristow, with both soloist and orchestra on top form. Previn and Rose are equally adept as interpreters also in no fewer than eight cases, composers of standard music such as we used to know in those happy days of yore. I would imagine most JIM readers will be familiar with these recordings, so if your original copies have been showing signs of wear, now is your chance to replace them. Arthur Jackson

DAVID ROSE & HIS ORCHESTRA – EASY LISTENINGKiss of Fire, In a Sentimental mood, You Stepped out of a Dream, Ebb Tide, Caravan, Blue Prelude, All the Things You Are,Misty, Flamingo, Man with the Golden Arm, Shangri – La, Autumn Leaves, Autumn Waltz, September in the Rain, Blue Autumn, ‘Tis Autumn, Indian Summer, Shine on Harvest Moon, Autumn Serenade, Autumn Nocturne, And This is My Beloved, October Mist, Autumn in New York, Misirlou, What Is There To Say? , It’s a Most Unusual Day, Love Makes the World Go Round. Frank Bristow FBCD95 78:46mins. "Easy Listening" as an album title sounds most inappropriate to me. One thing the musicianly David Rose was not was a mere purveyor of bland mood music, as this collection of familiar and well loved standards proves. The basic material stems from three American MGM LP’s, "21 Channel Sound", "Autumn Leaves" and "Spectacular Strings", none of which as far as I have been able to ascertain, were ever issued in the U.K. Everything is nicely contrasted as far as tempi and styles are concerned, varying between big band sounds and the lush Rose string sound. It’s always perfect and musicianly and in no way can it be classed as "Easy Listening". Arthur Jackson Editor: Sorry to correct Arthur, but to avoid correspondence(!) "21 Channel Sound" was released in Britain – on MGM C901 and MGM CD 6057 (stereo).

JOHN PHILIP SOUSA, Works For Wind Band – Volume 3The Corocan Cadets, Semper Fidelis, Selections from : The Free Lance, The New York Hiippodrome, La Flor di Sevilla, Waltzes from ‘El Capitan’, A Century of Progress Suite: The Last Days of Pompeii, The White Rose, With Pleasure, Dance Hilarious, The Belle of Chicago, The National Game.Royal Artillery Band conducted by Keith Brion. Naxos 8.559092 54mins. Naxos have ambitiously set their sights on recording Sousa’s Wind Band music in its entirety, so this will be a substantial and significant series with several more instalments apparently already in the can. They have invested very wisely in the Royal Artillery Band, one of the largest and best bands in the British Army and in obtaining the services of Keith Brion, an American conductor who is a specialist in Sousa’s period style. The third volume was recorded in Woolwich Town Hall, a venue where often the Royal Artillery Orchestra have given public concerts. Sousa said a march ‘should make a man with a wooden leg step out‘ and that he succeeded spectacularly in his own philosophy cannot be in doubt. All the marches are played here with quite superb panache and swagger. La Flor de Sevilla composed for the Ibero – American Exposition in 1929 has a particularly attractive and beguiling trio, whilst A Century of Progress written in the year prior to his death showed the ‘March King’ had lost none of his flair for the idiom. The selection from the 1905 operetta The Free Lance, contains some appealing melodies, whilst the early suite The Last Days of Pompeii (which includes harp) has some interesting special effects as does the final piece on the disc The National Game. This is a series to collect and cherish especially at the Naxos price and one waits impatiently for Volume 4. Incidentally, this disc has the rare distinction for a military band CD in being ‘mentioned in despatches‘ during BBC Radio 3’s CD Review on Saturday 15th March, when Semper Fidelis followed on from a particularly unattractive and impenetrable piece by Schnittke!

Roger Hyslop

Production Music CDs

BIG SCREEN LITTLE SCREEN 2-CD collection of Archive tracks classified as Horror, The Westerns, Epics & Adventure and Dark Drama Cavendish CAV CD 155. This interesting collection has been put together by André Leon, from the Boosey & Hawkes archives, some dating back to 78s issued in the 1950s. Many of the tracks are quite short in duration, and the CDs are obviously not intended for leisure listening at home. But there are some interesting tracks that will appeal to enthusiasts, and the list of featured composers illustrates the quality of the writing – Trevor Duncan, Don Banks, John Scott, Eugene Cines, Joseph Cacciola, Dudley Simpson and Monia Liter, among others. Our good friend Heinz Herschmann is represented by his classic 78 The Galleon, and I have to say that it sounds better here than it did on his own Apollo Sound CD APSCD 205. Trevor Duncan’s gems include Revelation, four tracks of Mob Violence and two tracks from The Unwanted – The Boy. Enthusiasts are fortunate to have the opportunity to hear mood music of this calibre. David AdesCavendish CDs are only available from the RFS Record Service.

A further selection of recent releases from Vocalion.Unfortunately we had to go to press before review copies were received, but we felt sure that you would wish to know that these CDs are being released in the late Spring.

BOB SHARPLES ORCHESTRA Contrasts in Hi-Fi On the Road to Mandalay, Will You Remember, By the Bend of the River, Giannina Mia, A Perfect Day, Donkey Serenade, Sylvia, Sweethearts etc.Dimensions in Sound Tuxedo Junction, Singing the Blues, Mack the Knife, The Whistler and his Dog, Strike Up the Band, Satin Doll, Trolley Song, etc.Vocalion CDLK4169.

CATERINA VALENTE Great Continental Hits (with Stanley Black Orchestra) If You Go, Autumn Leaves, Melodie d’Amour, Too Soon, Volare, I Wish You Love, Song of the Sea, Why Do You Pass Me By etc. Valente & Violins (with Roland Shaw Orch) Love Letters, It Might as Well be Spring, This is all I Ask, Ebb Tide, What Now My Love, Somewhere etc. Vocalion CDLK4125 (postponed from last year).

RONALD BINGE Aldershot Brass Ensemble A Variation on Alouette, A Tune a Day, Trombonioso, Rushlake Green, The Jolly Swagman, A Song for all Comets etc. The Romantic Guitar with Gerald Tolan Echoes of a Dream, The Ever-Changing Sea, Summer’s End, Fugal Fancy, Where the Sun Shines etc. The Wimbledon Girl Singers Where the Gentle Avon Flows, Sailing By, Down by the River, String Song, The Watermill, Alas My Love You Do Me Wrong etc. Vocalion CDLK4129.

All Vocalion CDs are available from the RFS Record Service. CDLK series cost £10 [US $20] each; CDEA are £6 [$12]; and CDUS are also £6 [$12] each.

BRITISH FILM COMPOSERS IN CONCERT Clifton Parker – Thieves’ Carnival Overture, Two Choreographic Studies; Leighton Lucas – Ballet de la Reine; Anthony Collins – Eire Suite; Bruce Montgomery – Scottish Aubade, Scottish Lullaby; Eric Rogers – Palladium SymphonyRoyal Ballet Sinfonia / Gavin Sutherland Sanctuary White Line CD WHL 2145. This new release showcases the concert works of some of the most interesting British cinema composers in a collection of world premiere recordings, featuring the likes of ‘Carry On’ film composers Bruce Montgomery and Eric Rogers, whose Palladium Symphony was inspired by his time conducting and composing for ITV’sSunday Night at the London Palladium. Another featured composer, Leighton Lucas, went from dancing with Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes to working with Ivor Novello, later writing music for Alfred Hitchcock’s Stage Fright and war epics such as The Dam Busters, for which he provided the incidental music to supplement Eric Coates’ famous march.

KETỀLBEY CONDUCTS KETỀLBEY Volume 3 A Cockney Suite, Gallantry, I Call You From The Shadows, Blow Blow Thou Winter Wind, In a Camp of Ancient Britons, A Musical Jigsaw, Danse a la Tarantelle, Mind The Slide, Jungle Drums, Aberfoyle, Fiddle Fun, A Desert Romance, Sunset Glow, With Honour Crowned Various Orchestras Naxos 8110869. This collection of recordings dates from 1909 to 1940. The previous two volumes disappointed some buyers who felt that the sound restoration was patchy; it may be worth waiting to read reviews before deciding to purchase, although the price of around £5 is certainly not excessive.

DIMITRI TIOMKIN : "Red River" film score Moscow Symphony Orchestra / William Stromberg Marco Polo 8225217. Starring John Wayne and Montgomery Clift, Howard Hawks’ Academy Award-winning Red River ranks among the best of the classic westerns made in the 1940s.

BRITISH LIGHT OVERTURESVolume 3Open Road (Matthew Curtis); The Hobbit (Carey Blyton);Hampton Court (Montague Phillips); Summer Overture (John Fox); Overture to a Fairy Tale (Bruce Montgomery); Comedy Overture (Adam Saunders); A Children’s Overture (Roger Quilter);Celebration Overture (Philip Lane); The Ballyraggers (James Langley); The Needles (Matthew Taylor)Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland Sanctuary White Line CDWHL 2140. Whilst most people are familiar with Quilter’s A Children’s Overture there can be few who have come across the other overtures on this splendid disc, let alone ever heard them played. In no particular order Hampton Court can be justifiably described as "majestic" in every sense while the rough and tumble of The Needles will put fear into any yachtsman. Matthew Curtis is his usual jolly self in Open Road while Carey Blyton wrote his clever short piece about The Hobbit long before media film hype destroyed the individual mindset created through reading the book. The Ballyraggers is true to the dictionary definition of a word which means "aggressive horseplay" while Philip Lane’s Celebration, John Fox’s Summer and Adam Saunders’ Comedy are overtures to grace the opening of any music festival. Bruce Montgomery’s Fairytale is a lovely wistful item which brings us back to Roger Quilter. This is a great disc. Peter Worsley

BRITISH FILM COMPOSERS IN CONCERT Thieves’ Carnival Overture (Clifton Parker); Two Choreographic Studies (Parker); Ballet de la Reine (Leighton Lucas); Eire Suite (Anthony Collins); Scottish Aubade (Bruce Montgomery); Scottish Lullaby (Montgomery); Palladium Symphony (Eric Rogers)Royal Ballet Sinfonia/Gavin Sutherland Sanctuary White Line CDWHL2145 (71:50). Our habit of "pigeon-holeing" composers and their music often works to our own disadvantage. Frankly, is it really important that music be exclusively "Light" or "Serious"; "Classical" or "Popular"; Traditional or Avant-Garde or Post-Modernist (whatever that means); or written before or after such-and-such a year or period? Anyway, Messrs. Lane and Sutherland, those doughty champions of the long-neglected and the little-known, here explode the possibly still-lurking myth that, because these five composers wrote mainly for the cinema their "other" work can’t be much good. For example: one might easily preconceive a piece bearing the title "Palladium Symphony" as all glitz and superficial showbiz clichés. It isn’t, and if you are familiar with Clive Richardson’s "London Fantasia" and Ralph (not ‘Rafe’ incidentally) Vaughan Williams’ F minor Symphony, listen very attentively – chances are you will be greatly intrigued! Anthony Collins’ "Fluters’ Hooley" was heard from time to time in far-off BBC days, although little if anything else is likely to stir any memories: you are in for some very pleasant surprises! Not, then, for those who "only like what they know"; but real music-lovers go ahead fully confidently. John E. Govier

In their non-pressurised moments several film composers managed to score private light music gems, either for themselves or for their close circle of friends. They would have remained private and eventually been forgotten had not Philip Lane uncovered them and arranged their recording. All the pieces have their own special appeal, the most substantial being the first performance of thePalladium Symphony by Eric Rogers, more usually known for his work with the Carry On films after he succeeded Bruce Montgomery. There was also more to Anthony Collins than Vanity Fair and conducting. Clifton Parker meanwhile scored more than 50 films while Leighton Lucas arranged much of Ivor Novello’s later works. More rich pickings here. Peter Worsley

ALBERT W. KETÈLBEY Volume 3Cockney Suite (State Procession – Buckingham Palace; Cockney Lover – Lambeth Walk; Palais de Dance; Elegy – Thoughts on Passing the Cenotaph; Bank Holiday – ‘Appy ‘Ampstead); Gallantry; I Call You From the Shadows; Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind; In a Camp of the Ancient Britons; A Musical Jigsaw; Danse à la Tarantelle; Mind the Slide (The Troubled Trombone); Jungle Drums; Aberfoyle; Fiddle Fun; A Desert Romance; Sunset Glow; With Honour Crowned.Orchestras conducted by the composer Naxos 8110869, 70:58 mins. This third volume contains a number of rare recordings which are undoubtedly musically important from an historical standpoint, and the compiler Peter Dempsey is to be congratulated for unearthing them. They cover a period from the early acoustics of 1908 up to the more sophisticated electricals of 1940, so understandably the different studios, ensembles and record companies mean that the sound quality varies considerably. Nevertheless in the hands of a talented sound restoration engineer, using state-of-the-art equipment such as CEDAR, good results could be achieved. Sadly this is not the case here, and I have to say that, because of the obtrusive surface noise, listening to this CD was, for me, a tedious experience that I will not hurry to repeat. David Ades

At long last we can hear exactly how Albert Ketelbey thought some of his rare compositions should sound and the results will surprise many of his fans. Several of the recordings are pre-electric but still play well, especially Norman Allin’s bass voice in the superb Blow, Blow Thou Winter Wind andThe Troubled Trombone, a jazzy number which predates the arrival of the Original Dixieland Jazz Band by several months! In aCamp of the Ancient Britons is an exciting piece and most of the others will also delight the ear. If you can identify the 44 different tunes in A Musical Jigsaw then you will be doing well but of special interest is the complete original Cockney Suite, among which ‘Appy ‘Ampstead never disappoints. The sleeve notes are good and this is a bargain CD if you like historic British Light Music – it’s as simple as that! Edmund Whitehouse

CATERINA VALENTE Great Continental Hits (with Stanley Black Orchestra) If You Go, Autumn Leaves, Melodie d’Amour, Too Soon, Volare, I Wish You Love, Song of the Sea, Why Do You Pass Me By etc. Valente & Violins (with Roland Shaw Orch) Love Letters, It Might as Well be Spring, This is all I Ask, Ebb Tide, What Now My Love, Somewhere etc. Vocalion CDLK4125 (postponed from last year). The reissue of these two LPs has been eagerly awaited – not only for Caterina’s distinctive way with a song, but also as an example of Stanley Black’s superlative scores. The second album (with Roland Shaw) is also very good, and together they make an attractive package that should sell very well. David Ades

RONALD BINGE Aldershot Brass Ensemble A Variation on Alouette, A Tune a Day, Trombonioso, Rushlake Green, The Jolly Swagman, A Song for all Comets, etc. The Romantic Guitar with Gerald Tolan Echoes of a Dream, The Ever-Changing Sea, Summer’s End, Fugal Fancy, Where the Sun Shines etc. The Wimbledon Girl Singers Where the Gentle Avon Flows, Sailing By, Down by the River, String Song, The Watermill, Alas My Love You Do Me Wrong etc. Vocalion CDLK4129. These LPs, originally on Refiffusion, are perfect illustrations of Ronald Binge’s versatility. Once he ‘escaped’ from the cascading strings he created for Mantovani, he tried his hand at several different styles, and his many admirers owe a debt of gratitude to Mike Dutton at Vocalion for restoring these fascinating examples of his work to the catalogue. David Ades

MANTOVANI Exodus Exodus Main theme & Karen, A Summer Place, The Green Leaves of Summer, Song Without End, 76 Trombones, The Sundowners, Irma la Douce etc. Great Films – Great themes Barabbas, Fanny, Advise and Consent, Goodbye Again, The Apartment, Never on Sunday etc. Vocalion CDLK4179. Around 40 years ago, some music lovers were getting a little tired of the ‘Mantovani sound’, especially as so many new LPs of his music were constantly being released. Of course, the reason for this abundance was that they all sold well, and hearing them again after several decades it is easy to understand why. For the truth is that the famous ‘sound’ did not overwhelm everything that Mantovani did, and the main thing in his favour was the excellence of the arrangements, the high standards of performance and the top quality recording. If anything, they sound even better today, and this collection of popular film themes (including the unlikely Charles Williams hit theme for The Apartment) will please Mantovani’s many fans. David Ades

HAT BOX : Hat Box(Alan Bullard); Arioso (S.Rak); Greensleeves to a Grand, Brande Yrlandt, Cowarte Monsieur and Fantasia (Anon 17th century); Chadkirk Idyll (E. Tomlinson); Fred’s Blue Ginger Staircase Music (David Ellis); Variations on Dowland’s Comagin (Van Eyck); New World Dances (John Golland) Un Petit Jazz (John Duarte); Bramall Hall Dances (Peter Hope). John Turner (Recorder), Neil Smith (Guitar). CAMPION CAMEO 2020 74.45mins. Apart from the 17th Century Variations and the Stepan Rak piece, all the music on this attractive disc may be described as British light music with at least two great light music composers represented therein. Much of it (though not the Golland and Duarte, both uptempo suites) is also associated with Stockport where David Ellis, producer and composer, lives. Stockport was once famed for hatmaking, so Alan Bullard’s Hat Box, a "thematic suite" in eight brief movements (featuring top hat, beret, Mexican hat, stetson, deerstalker, baseball cap, bonnet and cloth cap) is appropriate. Ernest Tomlinson’s Chadkirk Iydll (Chadkirk is the chapel where the recording was made) was also expressly written for the CD and is the most serious piece here. Ellis’s rhythmic suite (Fred and Ginger are Astaire and Rodgers, of course) and Peter Hope’s Bramall Hall Dances, mixing old and new idioms, both celebrate local buildings. The enterprising John Turner plays brilliantly and Neil Smith partners him well, if a little woodenly in Tomlinson. Philip Scowcroft

BRITISH STRING MINIATURESVOLUME 3Entertainments (Gilbert Vinter); Sospiri (Sir Edward Elgar); Four Folksong Preludes (Peter Warlock); Countryside Suite (John Fox); Elegy (Haigh Marshall); First Suite for Strings (Cyril Scott); Sinfonia Breve (Gareth Walters). Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland Sanctuary Group CDWHL 2139.Essentially British in every respect one can just imagine rural folk wending their way along the lanes long before the now ubiquitous motor car invaded what had hitherto been largely alien territory. Nowadays one has to venture a good way off the beaten track to find peace and quiet but this music, especially John Fox’sCountryside Suite (Morning Air, Black clouds over the moors, My village and Country Folk)speaks for itself. Gilbert Vinter is in his usual jaunty vein with Entertainments, while Elgar’s Sospiri is well-known. The other pieces also hark back to a gentler age when music-making was a very different affair. A rural idyll indeed. Time to reflect and ponder? Edmund Whitehouse

A TRIBUTE TO STANLEY BLACKEarly Black Magic, 25 original recordings 1931-52. Lullaby; Lady Be Good; Lost in the Fog; Honeysuckle Rose; I ‘ain’t got Nobody; Trouble in Paradise; I Won’t Dance; Porcupine Rag; Someday Sweetheart; Roy Club Rag; Gershwin medley; Caravan; Out of the Ragbag medley; Victory Roll Rag; Oasis; South American Way; I threw a Kiss in the Ocean; At the Crossroads; A Sultan goes to Harlem; Jungle Bird; Andalucia; Sans ton Amour; Sulla Laguna; Pianolo; Estrellita. Sanctuary Group Living Era AJA 5490.With musicians like Coleman Hawkins and the full bands of Howard Jacobs, Lew Stone, Harry Roy, Bert Ambrose and Carl Barriteau one can hardly fail to be impressed with this new disc. Before he switched more to light music Stanley Black was a true jazz and dance band favourite, arranging as well as composing and playing the piano. These 25 tracks are amongst his very finest.Edmund Whitehouse

BOB SHARPLES ORCHESTRA Dimensions in Sound Tuxedo Junction, Singing the Blues, Mack the Knife, The Whistler and his Dog, Strike Up the Band, Rocket, Satin Doll, Trolley Song, etc. Contrasts in Hi-Fi On the Road to Mandalay, Will You Remember, By the Bend of the River, Giannina Mia, A Perfect Day, Donkey Serenade, Sylvia, Sweethearts etc.Vocalion CDLK4169. This is another of Vocalion’s excellent value 2-CD packages, offering 2 CDs for the price of one, simply because the two LPs combined last too long to squeeze on to one CD. Rather than cut some tracks (which less honourable record companies might do), Mike Dutton ensures that these reissues are the genuine article. Dimensions in Sound was released in August 1960, and it sounds like a dry-run for Decca’s Phase 4 Stereo, which was launched with much publicity two years later. The instruments are well separated, and I was amused by the comment about Rocket in the original sleeves notes from the LPs producer Ray Horricks: "The sound is quiet, but a good cartridge will separate the instruments." Today we have learned not to want too many gimmicks, so the question has to be – does the music rise above the sound engineer’s games? Just about, although I have to admit that the sound is spectacular! Contrasts in Hi-Fi (released December 1957) was just too soon for stereo, although the arrangements often sound like it ought to be. ‘Contrasts’ is the operative word, because this LP contains so many different styles that one wonders at times what Bob Sharples is up to. Dennis Brain (French horn) and Bobby Pratt (trumpet) are featured soloists on some tracks, and there are four vocal numbers featuring The Sandmen (who actually include girls!). After the initial shock, I think that this CD is likely to grow on you. It’s worth adding to your Christmas ‘wants’ list. David Ades

FREDDY GARDNER and his Golden Tone Saxophone I Only Have Eyes for You, I’m In the Mood For Love, Roses of Picardy, These Foolish Things, Valse Vanité, Body and Soul, Softly as in a Morning Sunrise – plus 19 more Sanctuary Group Living Era CDAJA5454, 77:12 mins. The seven tracks listed above are the last ones on the CD, and they all feature the magnificent playing of Freddy with the Peter Yorke Orchestra, recorded only a few years before his untimely death on 26 July 1950, aged only 39. The other tracks date from 1935 onwards, and showcase Freddy with various small groups and also his larger swing orchestra. There are also five sides from Decca’s Music While You Work wartime series played by Freddy Gardner and his Messmates. Keen fans may already have some of these 78s on other reissues, but this new attractive collection shouldn’t be ignored. David Ades

RADIO AND TELEVISION MEMORIES No. 3 London Calling (Eric Coates), On a Spring Note (Sidney Torch), Bowin’ and Scrapin’ (Reg Casson), Rippling Waters (Donald Thorne), Muse in Mayfair (Vivian Ellis), Table Talk (Dolf van der Linden), Pastoral Montage (Gideon Fagan), Downland (Cecil Milner), Non-Stop (John Malcolm), Cavalcade of Youth (Jack Beaver) etc… This England (Evergreen Melodies) CR4. Sorry there isn’t room to list the contents in full, but a glance at the list will confirm that this CD is packed with light music favourites. In total there are 36 tracks, and some of them are brief extracts from actual shows such as Have a Go, Journey Into Space and Much Binding in the Marsh. Even if you have some of these titles already (and most of you will), it’s always nice to hear them played in a different order, with the additional surprises squeezed in! David Ades This England CDs cost £8.95 (which includes UK postage). Write to: Evergreen Melodies, PO Box 52, Cheltenham, GL50 1YQ, England – tel. 01242 515156 or online at Credit cards accepted.

DAVID ROSE AND HIS ORCHESTRA A ‘Mrs Miniver’ Rose Almost Like Being in Love, Don’t Fence Me In, I Got Rhythm, Hot Canary, El Relicario, Academy Award Medley, Pink Champagne, Ain’t Misbehavin, Little House on the Prairie, Rustle of Spring, Alone Again Naturally, King & I Medley, etc..(Australia) Frank Bristow FBCD97, 77:57 mins. Anyone who knows and loves the music of David Rose, George Gershwin and Jerome Kern will know what to expect from the first of these two CDs, an immaculate performance of some of the best standards of all time which needs no further description from me. I have to admit that the "Mrs. Miniver" reference in thre second obscure title is completely lost on me; the record itself is a blend of twelve David Rose originals done for the World and Muzak companies, presumably for background music, including links of less than one and a half minutes. There are also two tracks, Bewitched and Over the Rainbow, from the Standard label and four Rose compositions from his affiliation with Capitol. Not the best CD from the Rose Orchestra by any means, but a well-varied and contrasted programme that should satisfy almost everyone.Arthur Jackson

FROM THE BOSWORTH LIBRARY Isn’t it a Happy Day, Ivory Antics, Petals, Rain or Shine, Doctor’s Orders, Red Poppies, April Day, etc… (Australia) Frank Bristow FBCD100, 79:08. The Bosworth Library is believed to have started issuing mood music 78s in 1936, to be quickly followed by Boosey & Hawkes. Frank Bristow has collected together 29 sides which I believe all date from the 1930s. When people like Chappell arrived on the scene most mood music was played by a full light orchestra, but many of these early 78s feature small ensembles (no strings) by groups such as the Ragamuffin Syncopators and the Pall Mall Revellers. It’s rather like the kind of music that accompanied the antics of Laurel and Hardy in their first talkies. Anyone with an interest in the history of mood music will want to add this to their collection. David Ades

THE STORY OF TWO LOVES Manhattan Tower Gordon Jenkins Orchestra & Chorus; Atlantic Crossing Ferde Grofé and New Symphony Orchestra. (Australia) Frank Bristow EXCD37, 76:17 mins. Two narrative stories you may remember from the earliest days of microgroove, one of which at least has developed legendary status over the last 50 years. This is, of course, Gordon Jenkins’Manhattan Tower which, despite criticism, stands alone in its subject matter and musical content as one of the finest ’concept’ albums ever produced. First appearing in 1945 on Brunswick 78s (and later on LP) of only 17 minutes’ duration, Manhattan Tower was recreated and augmented by Jenkins as a 48-minute LP under his new Capitol contract, and it is this ‘Hi-Fi’ version that Frank Bristow has elected to use here (obviously it’s not the sort of thing Capitol itself would ever reissue!). I vaguely remember Ferde Grofé’s Atlantic Crossing being issued on Decca LK4037 circa 1950/51, but I never had it in my collection. It is interesting to have as a fill-up to Manhattan, but even to a long-term Grofé admirer it cannot be more than a footnote in his career. Narrated by Anton Dolin and authoress Ethel Levane, it tells a nostalgic story of two Americans finding love in London and Paris, but one can’t help feeling that the whole thing might have been better without the (mostly incomprehensible) dialogue, and letting the music, such as it is, speak for itself. Arthur Jackson

Frank Bristow’s CDs are only available by writing to him at: 2 Cross Street, Brighton, Victoria, 3186, AUSTRALIA or by sending an e-mail to him at: Arrangements can be made for British members to pay with a sterling cheque.

LEROY ANDERSON Classical Juke Box Syncopated Clock, Chicken Reel, Fiddle Faddle, Serenata, Sleigh Ride, Irish Suite, Saraband, Promenade, Trumpeter’s Lullaby, Jazz Legato – Jazz Pizzicato, A Christmas Festival Arthur Fiedler and the Boston Pops Naxos 8120649. In the past few years there have been several fine CDs of Leroy Anderson’s music, which must affect the sale potential of each new entrant on the scene. The emphasis here is on his original compositions and arrangements performed by the Boston Pops between 1947 and 1950. This compilation was in the safe hands of David Lennick and Graham Newton, so you can be reassured that the sound quality is vastly superior to some of the recent ‘vintage’ releases from Naxos. David Ades

New from Apollo Sound:

CAREY BLYTON Film Production Music Volume 2 Capital City, Flying Birds, The Living River, The Goshawk, Revenge of the Cybermen, Death to the Daleks, etc… Apollo Sound APSCD225, 55:49 mins.

These three new CDs from Apollo Sound will be warmly received by the many keen collectors who have welcomed the feast of lounge (or whatever you care to call it!) music that has been resurrected from the archives in recent years. Firstly there is the eagerly awaited second volume of original compositions by Carey Blyton, whose death in July 2002 we sadly reported in JIM 153 (page 58). The first half concentrates on Carey’s work on documentary films, many of them covering wildlife subjects for organisations such as the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Often a small group featuring mainly woodwinds seems best suited to subjects like this – an area in which Carey excels. The second part of the CD visits his music for TV plays, notably Doctor Who (around 17 short tracks) so the fans of this cult series will be delighted. A surprising inclusion is the familiar Associated Rediffusion station ident from 1966, introducing Carey’s score for "Julie’s Gone". Mention must be made of the impressive 20-page booklet which goes into incredible detail regarding both the composer and his music. A most impressive release.

Next we move on to the ninth in Apollo’s best known series – Test Card Music – and this time all the tracks are from Apollo Sounds’ own archive, having originally appeared on their LPs. The vast majority were recorded in European radio studios during Heinz Herschmann’s frequent (and very productive) tours of the continent, often in countries which were then on the other side of the iron curtain. Names such as The Polish Radio Orchestra, the Franz Thon Big Band, the Budapest Radio Orchestra and Joze Privsek, will be familiar to the growing band of collectors who eagerly devour each new issue. Waving the union jack are Simon Gale and Richard Frank. Here are 20 tracks that will rekindle nostalgic memories of the days when television didn’t invade our homes non-stop for 24 hours each day!

Finally, for this time, we have the second volume from the archives of Mozart Edition (GB) Ltd who (like Apollo) often recorded in Europe. The 19 tracks include a variety of sounds from Hans Hammerschmidt, Borgazzi Fabio, Mario Mellier, Maria Augusta Bruni, De Vera, Sapabo etc… These names will be known to aficionados, and such is the cult status of this kind of music that Apollo have bowed to the wishes of their loyal customers by making some of these CDs also available on vinyl. The ensembles range in size from a trio to a big band and chorus. Of course this isn’t light music – it is best described by the CD cover which calls it Groovy and Scat! David Ades

PETER YORKE AND HIS CONCERT ORCHESTRA featuring FREDDY GARDNER and *STEVE CONWAY "Melody of the Stars" Melody of the Stars; "Till The Clouds Roll By" – Look for the Silver Lining, All the Things You Are, I Won’t Dance, Smoke Gets in your Eyes, Who, Old Man River; These Foolish Things; "Carnival in Costa Rica" – Costa Rica, *Another Night Like This, I’ll Know it’s Love, *Mi Vida; Humpty Dumpty, "Blue Skies" – Blue Skies, You Keep Coming Back like a Song, Getting Nowhere, White Christmas; Dawn Fantasy (featuring Arthur Sandford, piano); "The Time The Place And The Girl" – Gal in Calico, Through a Thousand Dreams, A Rainy Night in Rio, Oh But I Do; How Deep is the Ocean; "It’s Magic" - *It’s Magic, Run Run Run, Put ‘em in a Box, *It’s You or No One; I Only Have Eyes for You; "Night and Day" – Night and Day, Begin the Beguine, Let’s Do It, What is this Thing Called Love, My Heart Belongs to Daddy; *No Orchids for my Lady; "Bambi" – Love is a Song, Let’s Sing a Gay Little Spring Song, Looking for Romance Little April Shower, Love is a Song; Gentle Maiden; "Look for the Silver Lining" – Look for the Silver Lining, Kiss in the Dark, Who, Time on my Hands, Sunny. Sanctuary Group Living Era CDAJA5501.

ERNEST GOLD and BERNARD HERRMANN Film Themes of Ernest Gold It’s a Mad Mad Mad Mad World, The Young Philadelphians, Judgement at Nuremberg, The Last Sunset, Inherit the Wind,Pressure Point, A Child is Waiting, On the Beach, Saddle Pals, Exodus, Too Much Too Soon.London Festival Orchestra conducted by Ernest Gold.The Great Movie Thrillers Psycho, Marnie, North by Northwest, Vertigo, A Portrait of Hitch (from The Trouble with Harry). London Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Bernard Herrmann. Vocalion CDLK4178.

RONNIE ALDRICH Two Pianos – Today You Only Live Twice, A Whiter Shade of Pale, Georgy Girl, Something Stupid, A Man and a Woman, My Cup Runneth Over, Don’t Sleep in the Subway, Release Me, Barefoot in the Park, Alfie, Music to Watch Girls By, This is my Song Soft & Wicked Last Tango in Paris, You’re so Vain, Aubrey, Tie a Yellow Ribbon, Clair, Call Me, Goor Time Charlie’s Got the Blues, Oh Babe What Would you Say, Killing me Softly with his Song, Last Song, Theme from ‘The Valachi Papers’, It Never Rains in Southern California with the London Festival OrchestraVocalion CDLK4188.

STANLEY BLACK Some Enchanted EveningFalling in Love with Love, The Man I Love, So in Love, The Desert Song, Why Do I Love You, Body and Soul, Easy to Love, I’ve Got You Under my Skin, The Night is Young and You’re so Beautiful, All the Things you Are, Some Enchanted Evening, Love for Sale, Lover Come Back to Me, You and the Night and the MusicSummer Evening SerenadeGaviotta, Serenade to Eileen, Siciliano, From Here to Eternity, Memory, Desire, Starlight Serenade, Carnet de bal, Le Grisbi, Magic Circles, Melody of Love, Estrellita del sur.Vocalion CDLK4186.

JOHNNY DOUGLAS AND HIS CONCERT ORCHESTRA "Just Pure Gold" Catch a Falling Star, The Storry of a Starry Night, A Wonderful Guy, La Vie en Rose, Cherokee, Hello Young Lovers, All in a Golden Afternoon, I Feel Pretty, The Song is You, Oh What a Beautiful Morning, Seven Golden Bells, A Summer Place, Allez-vous en Go Away, Green Leaves of Summer, Carousel Waltz, I Still See Elisa, When I’m Not Near the Girl I Love, Lucy’s Theme from ‘Parish’, The Girl That I Marry, Out of my Dreams, This Nearly Was Mine Dulcima DLCD119. 21 tracks arranged by Johnny Douglas taken from his Decca LPs ‘Golden Strings’ and ‘The Broadway Waltzes’.

BRITISH LIGHT OVERTURES Volume 2: Plymouth Hoe (John Ansell); Overture 125 (David Gow); Farnham Festival Overture (Sir Richard Rodney Bennett); The Moor of Venice (William Alwyn); A Scots Overture (John Gardner); The Lamprey (Michael Gryspeerdt); Scaramouche (Peter Hope); A Cleveland Overture (Anthony Hedges); A Snowdon Overture (Gareth Glyn) Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland Sanctuary Group White Line CDWHL2137, 62:54 mins. While the nautically jolly Plymouth Hoe will be familiar to many, the other splendid overtures on this new CD will not. David Gow’s 125 was written to launch British Rail’s new high speed train in 1976; Richard Rodney Bennett’s offering is self explanatory; William Alwyn’s Moor of Venice began as a brass band piece before Philip Lane orchestrated it; while John Gardner’s original work was in honour of wartime RAF Fighter Command before being rescored for the 1954 Proms. Michael Gryspeerdt was a doctor by profession but played in the Gloucestershire Symphony Orchestra which often repaired to The Lamprey pub near Gloucester Cathedral while Peter Hope needs no introduction, nor does Anthony Hedges whose Cleveland Overture is related to Hull University where he was domiciled for many years. Welshman, Gareth Glyn lives on Anglesey and looks out to Snowdonia so it is easy to see where he obtained his inspiration. All the music is in the best British Light Music tradition and well worth purchasing. Peter Worsley

I have, alas, one or two serious misgivings about the makeup of this CD, bearing in mind the title British LIGHT Overtures. I can well imagine some impulse purchasers being misled into thinking that they are going to enjoy an hour or so of tuneful undemanding music which, for the most part, this recording doesn’t deliver. William Alwyn’s The Moor of Venice for example, has a particularly grim and doom-laden scenario which is fully realised in the music and could in no way be categorised as ‘light’. Surely a more accurate generic title (if Sanctuary Classics are going to continue with this series) would simply be ‘British Concert Overtures’. Furthermore the age profile, as represented by the compositional dates of these works is heavily tilted towards the modern with only two pre-dating 1950, one of which fortunately is John Ansell’s splendid, stirring and evocative salt-laden nautical overture Plymouth Hoe. Wonderful to have this at last in first-class modern sound, but for this listener at least leaving most of the remainder on this disc obstinately becalmed and (taking the nautical analogy a little further) outgunned and outranged! The best of the remainder for me was Rodney Bennett’s Farnham Festival Overture which includes skilful use of a piano, and Gareth Glyn’s appealing A Snowdon Overture which displays a charm and lyricism lacking in most of the remaining tracks, which I cannot imagine returning to very often. Playing time is somewhat miserly and there would have been ample room at the end for Ansell’s companion nautical overture The Windjammers, referred to in Philip Lane’s notes, and bringing about perhaps a satisfying concluding symmetry to this disc. Recording and performance are first rate, and if you think the contents will appeal to you don’t be put off by the strictures of a curmudgeonly reviewer. Incidentally, isn’t it about time that such significant figures of the past as Percy Fletcher, Montague Phillips, Haydn Wood, etc are represented in this series, assuming the compiler(s) can become a little less obsessed with ‘modern’? It would considerably increase the attractiveness and saleability of this series, and certainly I would have passed by Volume 2 had it not been for Plymouth Hoe! Roger Hyslop

JOHNNY DOUGLAS ORCHESTRA I won’t dance, Yesterdays, A fine romance, The Carioca, They can’t take that away from me, The way you look tonight, I’m putting all my eggs in one basket, etc.. (22 tracks taken from the Decca LPs ‘Cheek to Cheek’ & ‘A Handful of Stars’ Dulcima DLCD118, 73:42 mins. Many of us will recall these two Decca LPs from over 45 years ago with pleasant memories. Johnny Douglas’s own arrangements have a bright, fresh sound that won him many admirers back in the 1950s, and this welcome reissue on his own Dulcima label will please many readers of this magazine. The LPs date from 1955 and 1957, so they were just too early for stereo, but the original tape masters still sound fine. To fit both albums on to one CD, it has been necessary to omit Like Someone in Love and How High the Moon from ‘A Handful of Stars’. Just one slight disappointment: the CD booklet doesn’t say anything about Johnny’s distinguished career. Maybe he was too modest! As you will have read elsewhere in this issue, sadly Johnny died on Easter Sunday, 20 April, so this CD will serve as a lasting tribute to his talent as a superlative arranger of popular songs. David Ades Dulcima CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £13 [US $26] each.

BRITISH STRING MINIATURES Volume 2: Set of Act Tunes and Dances (Henry Purcell); Serenade for the Birthday of Frederic Delius (Peter Warlock); Air and Dance (Delius); Serenade (Matthew Curtis); Suite – The Spanish Lady (Sir Edward Elgar); Serenata Concertante (Philip Lane) Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland Sanctuary Group White Line CDWHL2136. You may not hear this music played regularly on BBC Radio 3 which shows it must be good! It is a delightful light string music CD of the highest calibre, both ancient and modern(ised). Gareth Glyn’s characteristic Anglesey Sketches tell the story of different parts of the island in North Wales where the composer resides.Particularly pleasant are the scherzo Cemaes,reflecting exuberant summer beach activities while the elegy Moelfre,conjures up the hundreds of lost souls down the centuries whose ships foundered on this dangerous rocky coastline. Matthew Curtis and Philip Lane prove that modern serious string music can be thoroughly enjoyable while the rest of the disc can easily be guessed from the style of the well-known composers listed. Peter Worsley The Sanctuary Group White Line series of CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £10 [US $20] each.

CHARLES WILLIAMS ‘Radio and Television Memories No. 2’ Devil’s Galop, Girls in Grey, The Old Clockmaker, Quiet Stroll, Voice of London, High Adventure, Rhythm on Rails, Starlings, Young Ballerina, Pioneer Trail, Trolleybus, Model Railway, Great Day, In a Hurry, Summer Garden, Follow That Car, Sports Galop, Workroom, Full Speed, Ten Days’ Leave, Night Boat to Duiblin (film theme), Alf’s Button Afloat (film music), SOS, Searchlight, Convoy Attack, Barrage, Naval Action, Commandos, Said the Bells, Atlantic Brakers, War in the Jungle, Sons of the Air, March Winds, Storm on the Moors, Seaford Head, Drummer Boy, Speedway Galop and The Falcons Charles Williams and his Concert Orchestra, Queen’s Hall Light Orchestra, etc. THIS ENGLAND CR3. As many readers will know, a new CD of Charles Williams’ compositions was recorded in England earlier this year, and its release is eagerly awaited. But This England magazine has just got in first by issuing the first commercial CD devoted entirely to compositions by this master of Light Music, which will delight his many admirers. The CD (and cassette) coincide with an article on Charles Williams in the spring 2003 issue of Evergreen (the sister magazine of This England). The CD is full of radio and TV themes, such as "Dick Barton – Special Agent", BBC Television Newsreel, "Jennings at School", Farming, "Friday Night is Music Night", "Top of the Bill", "Dan Dare", television interludes and others. There are also two rare film soundtracks – from "Night Boat to Dublin" (1946) and a 1938 Crazy Gang Film "Alf’s Button Afloat"; predictably the sound quality is only average and the extracts are brief, but the second film is notable for chase music which Williams must have used later as the basis for his Devil’s Galop. These two tracks alone make this CD a real collector’s item. Keen Williams fans will probably have many of the other tracks, and the need to choose items that are out of copyright (more than 50 years old) means that the compilers have had to resort to a number of less well-known short mood music pieces from the Chappell Recorded Music Library of the 1940s. Readers who have previously purchased CDs from This England will know that they are lovingly produced by real enthusiasts. The gloss of the major record companies may be missing, and expensive sound restoration is beyond their reach. Having said that, the sound quality here is perfectly acceptable, with only occasional surface noise evident, and it has to be recognised that this may well be a ‘plus’ factor for some collectors who value authenticity. This release is strongly recommended as a slice of English Light Music history. The only thing lacking is precise information of the recording source and the actual orchestra playing on each item. David Ades This CD is only available direct from Evergreen Melodies, PO Box 52, Cheltenham, GL50 1YQ, England – tel. 01242 515156 or online at The CD costs £8.95 including postage; a shorter cassette version is available for £7.50. Overseas members should enquire about extra postage costs.

MUSIC OF LECUONA Siboney, Danza Iucumi, Jungle Drums, Gitanarias, Maria my own, Malaguena, Always in my heart, Andalucia, La comparsa, High in Sierra PLACE PIGALLE Domino, Why do you pass me by, At last at last, Autumn leaves, C’est si bon, La mer, Waltz of Paree, Chez-moi, Boom, Mademoiselle de Paris, When the world was young, Au revoir Stanley Black, his Piano and Orchestra Vocalion CDLK4176. The early stereo sound on the ‘Lecuona’ album is quite amazing. Equally exciting are the arrangements, presumably the work of maestro Stanley Black, although he did not generally make known the musicians who must have worked with him on some of his albums. He was so busy in the recording studios and concert halls, that he surely could not have scored all his music himself. The accompanying LP "Place Pigalle" employs much fewer musicians, mainly piano, accordion, percussion and occasionally electronic organ. The result is an atmospheric portrait of the kind of sounds one would love to hear emanating from a smoky French café or bistro, late into the evening. Sadly things are rather different today, but at least Stanley allows us to wallow in our nostalgia for what should be. These are two very different albums, but somehow they are each very satisfying in their own way. You may not want to play the entire CD through in one go, but I suspect that you will get a lot of enjoyment from selecting various portions from time to time, depending upon your mood. David Ades

EVENING IN PARIS Mademoiselle de Paris, Love’s last word is spoken, My prayer, Vous qui passez sans me voir (Why do you pass me by?), Pigalle, La vie en rose, Boom, Ca c’est Paris, J’attendrai, Valentine, Clopin clopant, La Seine, Parlez moi d’amour, Can-can EVENING IN ROME Santa Lucia, Serenade in the night, Mattinata, Luna rossa, Tell me you’ll not forget, Mamma, Come back to Sorrento, La montanara, O sole mio, The echo told me a lie, Catari catari, Vieni sul mar, Anema e core, Funiculi funicular. Frank Chacksfield and his Orchestra Vocalion CDLK4167. This is really Leon Young’s CD, with his glorious arrangements excelling in these timeless interpretations of delightful melodies that still cannot fail to charm. The Chacksfield Orchestra really was a superb ensemble in the 1950s, strongly supported by the Decca sound technicians who were in a class all their own. First issued in 1954 and 1955, these albums just pre-date stereo, but the mono sound is fine and, after all, it is the music that really matters. As far as I am concerned, these interpretations are exactly how I wish to hear this kind of music performed. Rock ‘N’ Roll hadn’t yet fully embarked on the wrecking spree that killed off so many fine orchestras just a few years later. David Ades

NAT KING COLE Love Songs When I Fall in Love, Unforgettable, Very Thought of You, Too Young, Let’s Fall in Love, The More I See You, Stardust, These Foolish Things, etc… 24 tracks EMI 581 5132. I suppose that the only ‘problem’ with compilations such as this is deciding how many duplications you are prepared to tolerate. I haven’t checked in detail, but I should imagine that keen NKC collectors will already possess many of these tracks. However if your collection is currently devoid of this great singer, you could do far worse than purchase this bargain. David Ades

TED HEATH AND HIS MUSIC

Hits I Missed & Al Jolson Classics Vocalion CDLK4168

Great Film Hits & Pop Hits Vocalion CDLK4170

It is difficult to find something new to say about Ted Heath and his Music. His great band contained some of the finest soloists that were around in Britain at the time, and all of his Decca LPs were outstanding in their own way. For example, the idea of a big band swinging Al Jolson hits might sound a bit far-fetched, but Heath certainly gets away with it. And how many band leaders would allow their egos to admit that they had actually missed some hits? Ted Heath fans continue to be very fortunate that so many of his albums are now available in superb remasterings such as these. David Ades

MANTOVANI ORCHESTRA Italia Mia & Verzauberter Klang Aus Germany Vocalion CDLK4173. Just recently Vocalion have been treating us to several Decca albums featuring music from the continent of Europe, each being superb examples of the work of the respective orchestras. Frank Chacksfield with his ‘Evening in Rome’ (CDLK4167) has concentrated more on the popular sound of Italian music from the 1950s, whereas this Mantovani collection veers a little closer to the light classics. The sound and the performance are both stunning, and some readers may be reassured to know that the famous Mantovani ‘cascading strings’ sound is only used very sparingly (Decca probably insisted upon a touch of it here and there). The title track Italia Mia is one of Mantovani’s own compositions. This is the first time it has appeared on CD in Britain: it was previously on CD only in Japan – over a dozen years ago. The second LP was made for the continental market in June 1969, and did not appear in the UK, USA or Japan, so its revival should be of great interest to all Mantovani fans. Somewhat surprisingly, it was released in Australia as "Enchanting Sounds from Germany", but has been unavailable for many years. All of the tracks were big German hits, and many will be familiar to British ears. The German album is slightly more popular in style than theItalia Mia, but both fit nicely together, and this new CD is highly recommended. David Ades

SYDNEY LIPTON ORCHESTRA Sweet Harmony Cocktails for Two, Love is the Sweetest Thing, Love Walked In, Isn’t it Romantic, Dance Little Lady etc. Dancing at Grosvenor House Canadian Sunset, It’s Been a Long Long Time, Five Minutes More, Sioux City Sue, My Baby Just Cares for Me, Little White Lies, Scatter-brain, You’re Driving me Crazy etc. Vocalion CDLK4175. I suppose an obvious comment to make is that the melodies on this CD are so well-known that other versions of them must already be in the collections of many readers. So it all really comes down to a question of whether or not this style of music is your cup of tea – and I use the term deliberately, because a lot of tea will have been drunk over the years while Sydney Lipton and his Orchestra were performing music such as this at some of London’s most fashionable establishments. Today’s younger record buyers might find this rather quaint, but for those of us with longer melodies it will be a welcome addition to our collections. David Ades

EDWARD GERMANCoronation March and Hymn, Henry VIII - Three Dances, Welsh Rhapsody, Much Ado About Nothing, Bourée and Gigue, Nell Gwynn -Three Dances, Gipsy Suite - Four Characteristic Dances, Tom Jones -Three DancesBand of the Welsh Guards directed by Major Philip Shannon MBE. Specialist Recording Company SRC 104 69 mins. This is a further instalment in SRC's continuing series featuring CDs devoted to a single British composer and performed by one of our premier military bands - in this case the Welsh Guards. With the notable exception of Marco Polo who have included him in their British Light Music Series (No. 8.223419) and issued two volumes of his more serious music (Nos. 8.223695 & 8.223726), Sir Edward German has been largely neglected by the recording companies, so this new SRC CD is particularly welcome. Whilst some of these items have already appeared on the aforementioned Marco Polo album - Gipsy Suite, Henry VIII and Nell Gwynn Dances - none are exactly over-represented in the current catalogue. The attractions of this issue are considerably enhanced by the inclusion of several rarities. The Coronation March and Hymn(for George V’s Coronation) is based on themes from Henry VIII, the excerpts from Much Ado About Nothing are quite delightful and well worth a hearing whilst there are no modern recordings extant of the Tom Jones Dances. Nimble and agile woodwind playing are demanded in many of the faster dance movements and the Welsh Guards are fully equal to the challenges made upon them. Like the Sullivan disc the sessions were taped in the spacious acoustics of the Chapel, The Royal Hospital Chelsea. A very good buy! Roger Hyslop

BILLY MAYERL Vol. 1 Original Recordings 1925-1936 Marigold; Puppets Suite (Golliwog, Judy, Punch); Desert Song (selection); All-Of-A-Twist; Eskimo Shivers; Nippy (medley); Three Miniatures in Syncopation (Cobweb, Muffin Man, Clockwork); Sennen Cover; Jazzaristrix; Virginia Creeper; Limehouse Blues; Mignonette; Three Dances in Syncopation (English, Cricket, Harmonica); Indispensable You; Honky-Tonk; Honeysuckle; Sporting Love (medley); Have a Heart; Hollyhock.Naxos 8.120653.An excellent selection of early Mayerl masterpieces, including selections from two of his rarely heard musicals from the Thirties, Nippy and Sporting Love. Sennen Cove is the splendid full orchestral version conducted by Billy himself, while Ray Noble and Jack Hylton take the baton forHave a Heart and Indispensable You respectively. All the other tracks are solos played at the height of his fame by Mayerl, whose fantastic skills were described in a slow-motion film of the time as "Lightning Fingers". Peter Dempsey has done a wonderful job of remastering, including possibly the first ever piano recordings made by the new electrical process in Britain, namely All-Of-A-Twist andEskimo Shivers on 24th September, 1925. All in all a very good buy at bargain price. Peter WorsleyNaxos CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £5 [US $10] each.

PAUL MAURIAT AND HIS ORCHESTRA ‘The Best of …’ Love is Blue, Puppet on a String, Song for Anna, Les Deux Guitares, Last Summer Day, New York New York, Nocturne, Pearl Fishers, Guantanamera, Jeux Interdits, Those Were The Days, etc… 21 tracks (France) Mercury/ Universal 063 687-2. First of all he wrote the book … now our member Serge Elhaik has penned the booklet notes (in English and French) for this very entertaining and welcome new release. In 1968 Paul Mauriat’s Love Is Blue was top of the charts in the USA for seven weeks, firmly establishing his credentials as a top international conductor. Mauriat is also highly respected as a songwriter and arranger, as his work with the likes of Charles Aznavour and Mireille Mathieu will testify. His later career found him much in demand in Japan, where it is reckoned that he gave at least 1,200 concerts until 1998. The Paul Mauriat Orchestra still continues under Gilles Gambus. This CD presents the maestro in some of his most popular recordings (seven are his own compositions), and it should win him many new admirers. David Ades

THE FILM MUSIC OF RICHARD ADDINSELL Goodbye Mr. Chips; Dangerous Moonlight (Warsaw Concerto); Love on the Dole; Blithe Spirit; The Black Rose; Scrooge; Tom Brown’s Schooldays; The Admirable Crichton; Out of the Clouds (Flame Tango). BBC Philharmonic conducted by Rumon Gamba Chandos CHAN 10046, 79:50 minutes. A real feast of light music for cinema and non-cinemagoers alike. The vast majority of these orchestral masterpieces have been reconstructed by Philip Lane and what a labour of love was that! By listening to the soundtrack over and over again he has recreated the deliberately destroyed scores and put back into the musical repertoire what would surely have been lost for ever. It seems strange to us now that such musical gems were discarded as worthless once the movie had been made but there was so much good music around at the time that it is understandable, if not forgivable. The recordings are first class with the addition of the choirs of both Chetham’s and Manchester Cathedral, plus the piano playing of Martin Roscoe in The Warsaw Concerto. If you remember the films then you will remember the music but even if you are too young it doesn’t matter because the splendid music stands alone. Peter Worsley

While welcoming this release wholeheartedly, it is only right that I should draw readers’ attention to the previous two CDs of Addinsell’s Film Music (ASV CDWHL2108 & 2115). Philip Lane was also involved with both of these, and it is understandable that Chandos would wish to include many of Addinsell’s best-known works, so it is inevitable that some duplications have occurred. However, on this latest release, the only items that may already be in the hands of keen collectors are Warsaw Concerto, Blithe Spirit, and Scrooge. This not only serves to illustrate the considerable output achieved by Addinsell, but it should also reassure his admirers that they must not hesitate to acquire this latest release. Full marks also for the excellent booklet. David Ades

…Warsaw Concerto – that seemingly indestructible veteran evergreen – receives from Martin Roscow a performance of genuine symphonic breadth imbuing the piece with a surprising verdant freshness which is very appealing. A highlight for me was the music from Love On The Dole which I found particularly poignant and touching. Rumon Gamba deftly steers the highly accomplished and polished BBC Philharmonic through these scores with unerring sensitivity and complete sympathy. Roger Hyslop This CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £12 [US $24].

MARTIN BÖTTCHER Film Music Unser Haus in Kamerun, Der Fälscher von London, Strasse der Verheissung, Auf Engel Schiesst Man Nicht, Lufthansa-Suite plus 3 bonus tracks (Germany) Peermusic CD 0103. I feel sure that our German members will be familiar with the work of Martin Bőttcher – and rightly so, because his music is inventive and very pleasing. This new CD (conceived by our member Volker Rippe) offers the music from five films, plus three bonus tracks which I suspect were popular singles in the 1960s. The first film Unser Haus in Kamerun has a very pleasant theme, which is attractively arranged in a variety of moods with strings well to the fore. Several of the tracks would stand up very well on their own as fine examples of production music. Der Fälscher von London veers more towards jazz and (presumably!) the seamier side of London night life. A somewhat similar style is evident in Strasse der Verheissung, with nods towards West Coast Jazz and the more blatant pop sounds of the 1960s. Glenn Miller sounds emerge (intentionally) in Auf Engel Schiesst Man Nicht. Then bright holiday sounds take over in the Lufthansa-Suite. This is an interesting collection, with varied styles that prove that the composer can turn his talents towards any kind of mood, as required by the storylines in the films. The CD booklet (in German only) reproduces four film posters – a ‘plus’ point for collectors of film music. Scores such as this deserve to be preserved for posterity. David Ades

TED HEATH & HIS MUSIC Listen To My Music Opus 1; East of the Sun; Bakerloo Non-Stop; Donegal Cradle Song; On Ilkla Moor Baht’at; Baia; London Suite (Chelsea, Whitechapel, Limehouse, Bond Street, Piccadilly, Soho): Deep Forest; Pagan Love Song; You Go To My Head; Dark Eyes; Harlem Nocturne; Song of the Vagabonds; Listen To My Music; Hindustan; Lady Byrd; Sophisticated Lady; Lyonia; Euphoria; Cuban Crescendo; Roumanian Roundabout. Sanctuary Group Living Era CD AJA 5459.Ted Heath lovers will be pleased with this CD which includes Fats Waller’s complete London Suite which was released before the wartime Waller piano solo originals (which were destroyed in the Blitz) were commercially recorded from inferior copies made at the time. All the tracks were mono and made between 1944 and 1950 when Heath was arguably at his peak. The band was initially formed at the behest of the BBC Variety Department for broadcasting purposes only but soon outgrew this role and became Britain’s most famous big band. A fine tribute to a fine set of musicians. Edmund Whitehouse

LEROY ANDERSON – ‘Blue Tango’ Sleigh Ride, Promenade, The Waltzing Cat, The Syncopated Clock, Saraband, Serenata, Jazz Pizzicato … Jazz Legato, A Trumpeter’s Lullaby, Plink Plank Plunk, Horse and Buggy, Belle of the Ball, Blue Tango, China Doll, The Penny-Whistle Song, Fiddle-Faddle, The Phantom Regiment, Irish Suite, Christmas Festival Leroy Anderson and his ‘Pops’ Concert Orchestra Sanctuary GroupLiving Era CDAJA5481, 75:12 mins. This new CD has been compiled by RFS member David Lennick (who is based in Ontario, Canada), so the recording information given in the booklet refers to North America. Which is why all of the 78s are quoted as having Decca catalogue numbers, but this is the US Decca company, not the familiar British one. (To avoid confusion, I feel that there should have been a note in the CD booklet to explain this). In the UK these tracks were issued on Brunswick with completely different catalogue numbers, although the matrix numbers will have been the same. The recordings date from 11 September 1950 to 5 November 1952, and the running order of the tracks simply reflects the sequence in which they were released in the USA (except for the final item). In 2002 Jasmine issued a CD containing the first 16 titles (JASMCD 2580 – reviewed in JIM 152), but these are not all the same performances. (Jasmine gives no recording information whatsoever, and there was insufficient time available to make further investigations before this review had to be ready for the printers. If any readers can shed more light on this, we’ll be pleased to give the relevant details in a future issue). Clearly this new Living Era release is better value because it also contains Anderson’s six-movement Irish Suite plus the longer eight-minute version of his Christmas Festival. For the sake of completeness, I should remind readers that in 1992 MCA Records/Good Music in the USA released ‘Blue Tango -The Original Hit Recordings of Leroy Anderson’ on MSD 35334. This had 20 tracks, although Jazz Pizzicato and Jazz Legato were put on two different tracks, and incredibly separated by four other numbers – clearly the compiler had little regard for Anderson’s original concept. The remaining three ‘extra’ tracks were later works – Forgotten Dreams, Sandpaper Ballet and Bugler’s Holiday. Surprisingly Horse and Buggy was dropped in favour of The Minstrel Boy. The later stereo recordings by Leroy Anderson are on the 2-CD set ‘The Leroy Anderson Collection’ (MCA MCAD2-9815) so there have already been several opportunities for collectors to obtain the composer’s own performances on CD. If anyone reading this review still lacks Leroy Anderson on their CD shelves, then my advice is to choose this latest release which is the best now available. The sound quality is very good (although the trumpets in The Wearing of the Green sound decidedly tipsy!), and these original performances from the beginning of the 1950s stand as the definitive versions. David Ades

BOB HOPE ‘Thanks for the Memory’ Title track, Two Sleepy People, The Lady’s in Love with You, Penthouse Serenade, Put it There Pal, The Road to Morocco, My Favourite Brunette, Beside You, Buttons and Bows, That’s Not the Knot, Lucky Us, Ain’t we Got Fun, Blind Date, Goodnight Irene, Home on the Range, Wing Ding Tonight, Am I in Love, A Four-Legged Friend, Hoots Mon, Chicago Style, The Road to Bali, Merry-Go-Runaround Living Era CDAJA5493, 76:30 mins. British-born Bob Hope has become an American institution, and he had the rare honour of hearing warm tributes paid to him by the US Congress a few years ago when what might be termed a ‘premature’ announcement of his death was made. Assuming that he doesn’t fall at the last hurdle, by the time you read this he will have celebrated his 100th birthday on 29 May, and this new CD is therefore both a timely and a fitting tribute to his rather sparse recording career. Once again, the compiler credits are in the name of ‘our’ David Lennick, so my previous comments (on the Leroy Anderson CD above) about North American recordings details apply here as well. If Bob wasn’t exactly prolific in the recording studios, at least what he did commit to wax was worthy of preservation, proving that he had an astute regard for quality, rather than quantity. On several tracks he is joined by the likes of Bing Crosby, Shirley Ross, Dorothy Lamour, Margaret Whiting and Jane Russell, and there are extra tracks (not listed above) from radio shows and visits to the troops, for which he became something of a legend in World War 2. Bob’s films are represented with numbers from several Roadfilms, plus The Paleface and Son of Paleface – the latter being a rare example of a sequel being better than the original. The gremlins appear to have made mistakes on two track titles, but apart from that minor niggle this is a splendid production in all respects. David Ades All Sanctuary Group Living Era CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £8 [US $16] each.

BEST OF THE FIFTIES Various Artists 6 CD set, EMI GOLD 582 5542. Selling for around £20 this collection ought to be good value, although the music on the 6 CDs would easily fit on to 4. Also EMI are on decidedly dodgy ground with the assertion that these are "original artists … original hits" when many are cover versions by EMI contract artists. As for the 1950s tag, how can you describe Judy Garland’s Over The Rainbow in this way ("The Wizard of Oz" came out in 1939)? This is a very mixed bag, with hardly any instrumental items. Just treat it as yet another compilation: it certainly isn’t an accurate portrayal of the overall music scene in the 1950s as I remember it. David Ades

NORMAN WISDOM ‘The Very Best of …’ EMI GOLD 582 6522. I haven’t listed the tracks because you’d be hard pressed to associate many of the titles with Sir Norman. Missing is his big number (accompanied by Robert Farnon) from the ice show "London Melody" which first made his name, and it would have been nice to have that catchy tune I’d Like to Put on Record from "Trouble in Store" (of course Don’t Laugh at Me is included). Surprisingly absent also are those two classic sides he did with Joyce Grenfell (remember Narcissus?). Norman has a pleasant voice, and he usually had excellent orchestrations backing him. This collection is quite good, but with a little more thought it could have been so much better. David Ades

HUMPHREY LYTTELTON ‘The Best of …’ EMI GOLD 583 2802. This is a 3-CD box set which you should be able to pick up for around £12. I have to admit that my knowledge of Humph’s recordings is limited, so I cannot say if there are any glaring gaps among the 60 titles. It begins with Bad Penny Blues so perhaps the omens are good! Whether or not your own particular favourites are all here, I suspect that few will disagree that this is very good value. David Ades

ADAM FAITH What Do You Want, Poor Me, Someone Else’s Baby etc. 24 tracks.EMI GOLD 583 1132. Pop singers don’t usually get included in this feature, but we know that a number of our readers are keen fans of John Barry, so they may be interested in this new release. Faith’s early successes were distinguished by the pizzicato and strings effects cleverly achieved by John Barry, with a little help from the Abbey Road echo chamber. Thanks to Hit and Miss, the signature tune of BBC TV’s "Juke Box Jury", John Barry was well known to pop fans around 40 years ago, and he certainly helped young Terence Nelhams (aka AF), who died earlier this year on 8 March aged 62.David Ades

ANNE SHELTON The Best of … Let’s Face the Music and Dance, Smoke Gets in Your Eyes, Bridge of Sighs, If I Give My Heart To You etc. 23 tracks. EMI GOLD 584 0152. Anne Shelton has been quite well served with CD reissues just recently, but mainly they have concentrated on her repertoire from the 1940s. This new collection from EMI comes mainly from the 1950s, and it includes a mixture of hits of the day plus a few well-loved standards. Anne was a very good singer, so we mention this for the benefit of her many admirers. David Ades

NATURAL BORN FILLERSBig Beat, Trippin the Blues, Waltz Cool, The Charmer (John Cacavas); Fancy Flutes, Kiddies Corner, Dancing Harp (Roger Roger); Swing Song, Happy Folk, For Deborah, The Waiting Game, The Winners (Roger Webb); Autumn Love (Paul Lewis); The Gentle Touch (Herbert Chappell); Regency Street (Sam Fonteyn); Dancing Youth Waltz (Douglas Gamley); The Storyteller (Harry Rabinowitz); Horn-a-Plenty (Robert Farnon); Like Spring (Steve Race) etc.. 66 tracks Double CD. Total Time 158 minutes Codename Music CMCD1970. "Diamonds are forever" should capture your mind when you see the cover of this well compiled CD of BBC and ITV Daytime Interlude classics from the late 1960’s and 1970’s. You should be mesmerized by the cover alone. On opening this double CD will unfold one primary disc and one secondary disc from schooldays past containing 64 tracks of catchy little pieces of light musical charm played before schools and children’s programmes on TV. Plus two distinctive bonus tracks featuring the primary school’s diamonds music and the secondary school’s diamonds music. The whole school timetable can be fondly remembered here as you listen to well loved and often aired musical miniatures from the world famous Chappell Recorded Music Library featuring enchanting pieces from the pens and pencils of John Cacavas, Brian Fahey, Roger Webb, Gordon Franks and Robert Farnon to name a few. So rustle up your old school kit and make space in your satchel for this little gem from days gone by. Malcolm Batchelor

The thought of 64 Chappell tracks should be enough to tempt many RFS members to buy this great new collection, especially as so many of the numbers will not already be in your collections. Steven Willis is a true enthusiast who has clearly put his heart into this compilation … and it shows! David Ades For full details of how to order this 2-CD set please go back to the full-page advertisement on page 5 of this issue.

ANDRE KOSTELANETZ AND HIS ORCHESTRA – A MISCELLANY. Liza, Laura, Sari Waltz, Vienna City of My Dreams, Falling in Love with Love, Gypsy Love Waltz, Gold and Silver Waltz, Intermezzo, Someone to Watch Over Me, Lady Be Good, Two Hearts in ¾ Time, Empore Waltz, Vilia, Have You Met Miss Jones?, Waltz Dream, Diane, Gypsy Baron Waltz, Love Walked In, You Made Me Love You, Serenade (Pierne ), We Kiss in a Shadow, Bali Ha’i, Moon over Miami, Now is the Hour, Frank Bristow FBCD91 78:30 mins. This is more or less Kosty’s recording career in microcosm, ranging from 12" 78s of anything up to 60 years ago (some of which …the Lehar, Stauss, Kalman, Stolz and Oscar Straus….startes me off as a collector) , on through Rodgers and Gershwin of the mid–forties and on to some early stereo recordings. Those six tracks are hardly typical of the Kostelanetz we admired for something like 30 years, either technically or musically. One, You Made Me Love You is so bad in both respects it’s all one can do to listen to it, but that is only one title out of many. Otherwise this ’Miscellany’ is a typical cross section of Kostelanetz’s’ work in all fields over the years and can be safely recommended. Arthur Jackson

ANDRE PREVIN & DAVID ROSE ORCHESTRA – LIKE BLUE/SONGS FOR YOUNG LOVERS. You and the Blues, Blue Room, Serenade in Blue, Blue Holiday, Blue Again, Like Blue, Black and Blue, Little Girl Blue, Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea, Blue Turning Grey Over You, Blue Subterranean, Born to be Blue, Blame It on My Youth, Young Man’s Lament, You Make Me Feel So Young, Young and Tender, While We’re Young, Too Young to be True, Last Night When We Were Young, Like Young, Younger Than Springtime, Year of Youth, Too Young to go Steady, Love is for the Very Young. Frank Bristow FBCD94 70.30 mins. It must be forty years since I had a Polydor/MGM double LP called " Like Young, Like Blue ", which turned out to be one of those albums one keeps coming back to when all else fails to satisfy. Here is the identical set complete on a very welcome CD from our friend Frank Bristow, with both soloist and orchestra on top form. Previn and Rose are equally adept as interpreters also in no fewer than eight cases, composers of standard music such as we used to know in those happy days of yore. I would imagine most JIM readers will be familiar with these recordings, so if your original copies have been showing signs of wear, now is your chance to replace them. Arthur Jackson

DAVID ROSE & HIS ORCHESTRA – EASY LISTENINGKiss of Fire, In a Sentimental mood, You Stepped out of a Dream, Ebb Tide, Caravan, Blue Prelude, All the Things You Are,Misty, Flamingo, Man with the Golden Arm, Shangri – La, Autumn Leaves, Autumn Waltz, September in the Rain, Blue Autumn, ‘Tis Autumn, Indian Summer, Shine on Harvest Moon, Autumn Serenade, Autumn Nocturne, And This is My Beloved, October Mist, Autumn in New York, Misirlou, What Is There To Say? , It’s a Most Unusual Day, Love Makes the World Go Round. Frank Bristow FBCD95 78:46mins. "Easy Listening" as an album title sounds most inappropriate to me. One thing the musicianly David Rose was not was a mere purveyor of bland mood music, as this collection of familiar and well loved standards proves. The basic material stems from three American MGM LP’s, "21 Channel Sound", "Autumn Leaves" and "Spectacular Strings", none of which as far as I have been able to ascertain, were ever issued in the U.K. Everything is nicely contrasted as far as tempi and styles are concerned, varying between big band sounds and the lush Rose string sound. It’s always perfect and musicianly and in no way can it be classed as "Easy Listening". Arthur Jackson Editor: Sorry to correct Arthur, but to avoid correspondence(!) "21 Channel Sound" was released in Britain – on MGM C901 and MGM CD 6057 (stereo).

JOHN PHILIP SOUSA, Works For Wind Band – Volume 3The Corocan Cadets, Semper Fidelis, Selections from : The Free Lance, The New York Hiippodrome, La Flor di Sevilla, Waltzes from ‘El Capitan’, A Century of Progress Suite: The Last Days of Pompeii, The White Rose, With Pleasure, Dance Hilarious, The Belle of Chicago, The National Game.Royal Artillery Band conducted by Keith Brion. Naxos 8.559092 54mins. Naxos have ambitiously set their sights on recording Sousa’s Wind Band music in its entirety, so this will be a substantial and significant series with several more instalments apparently already in the can. They have invested very wisely in the Royal Artillery Band, one of the largest and best bands in the British Army and in obtaining the services of Keith Brion, an American conductor who is a specialist in Sousa’s period style. The third volume was recorded in Woolwich Town Hall, a venue where often the Royal Artillery Orchestra have given public concerts. Sousa said a march ‘should make a man with a wooden leg step out‘ and that he succeeded spectacularly in his own philosophy cannot be in doubt. All the marches are played here with quite superb panache and swagger. La Flor de Sevilla composed for the Ibero – American Exposition in 1929 has a particularly attractive and beguiling trio, whilst A Century of Progress written in the year prior to his death showed the ‘March King’ had lost none of his flair for the idiom. The selection from the 1905 operetta The Free Lance, contains some appealing melodies, whilst the early suite The Last Days of Pompeii (which includes harp) has some interesting special effects as does the final piece on the disc The National Game. This is a series to collect and cherish especially at the Naxos price and one waits impatiently for Volume 4. Incidentally, this disc has the rare distinction for a military band CD in being ‘mentioned in despatches‘ during BBC Radio 3’s CD Review on Saturday 15th March, when Semper Fidelis followed on from a particularly unattractive and impenetrable piece by Schnittke!

Roger Hyslop

Production Music CDs

BIG SCREEN LITTLE SCREEN 2-CD collection of Archive tracks classified as Horror, The Westerns, Epics & Adventure and Dark Drama Cavendish CAV CD 155. This interesting collection has been put together by André Leon, from the Boosey & Hawkes archives, some dating back to 78s issued in the 1950s. Many of the tracks are quite short in duration, and the CDs are obviously not intended for leisure listening at home. But there are some interesting tracks that will appeal to enthusiasts, and the list of featured composers illustrates the quality of the writing – Trevor Duncan, Don Banks, John Scott, Eugene Cines, Joseph Cacciola, Dudley Simpson and Monia Liter, among others. Our good friend Heinz Herschmann is represented by his classic 78 The Galleon, and I have to say that it sounds better here than it did on his own Apollo Sound CD APSCD 205. Trevor Duncan’s gems include Revelation, four tracks of Mob Violence and two tracks from The Unwanted – The Boy. Enthusiasts are fortunate to have the opportunity to hear mood music of this calibre. David AdesCavendish CDs are only available from the RFS Record Service.

A further selection of recent releases from Vocalion.Unfortunately we had to go to press before review copies were received, but we felt sure that you would wish to know that these CDs are being released in the late Spring.

BOB SHARPLES ORCHESTRA Contrasts in Hi-Fi On the Road to Mandalay, Will You Remember, By the Bend of the River, Giannina Mia, A Perfect Day, Donkey Serenade, Sylvia, Sweethearts etc.Dimensions in Sound Tuxedo Junction, Singing the Blues, Mack the Knife, The Whistler and his Dog, Strike Up the Band, Satin Doll, Trolley Song, etc.Vocalion CDLK4169.

CATERINA VALENTE Great Continental Hits (with Stanley Black Orchestra) If You Go, Autumn Leaves, Melodie d’Amour, Too Soon, Volare, I Wish You Love, Song of the Sea, Why Do You Pass Me By etc. Valente & Violins (with Roland Shaw Orch) Love Letters, It Might as Well be Spring, This is all I Ask, Ebb Tide, What Now My Love, Somewhere etc. Vocalion CDLK4125 (postponed from last year).

RONALD BINGE Aldershot Brass Ensemble A Variation on Alouette, A Tune a Day, Trombonioso, Rushlake Green, The Jolly Swagman, A Song for all Comets etc. The Romantic Guitar with Gerald Tolan Echoes of a Dream, The Ever-Changing Sea, Summer’s End, Fugal Fancy, Where the Sun Shines etc. The Wimbledon Girl Singers Where the Gentle Avon Flows, Sailing By, Down by the River, String Song, The Watermill, Alas My Love You Do Me Wrong etc. Vocalion CDLK4129.

All Vocalion CDs are available from the RFS Record Service. CDLK series cost £10 [US $20] each; CDEA are £6 [$12]; and CDUS are also £6 [$12] each.

BRITISH FILM COMPOSERS IN CONCERT Clifton Parker – Thieves’ Carnival Overture, Two Choreographic Studies; Leighton Lucas – Ballet de la Reine; Anthony Collins – Eire Suite; Bruce Montgomery – Scottish Aubade, Scottish Lullaby; Eric Rogers – Palladium SymphonyRoyal Ballet Sinfonia / Gavin Sutherland Sanctuary White Line CD WHL 2145. This new release showcases the concert works of some of the most interesting British cinema composers in a collection of world premiere recordings, featuring the likes of ‘Carry On’ film composers Bruce Montgomery and Eric Rogers, whose Palladium Symphony was inspired by his time conducting and composing for ITV’sSunday Night at the London Palladium. Another featured composer, Leighton Lucas, went from dancing with Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes to working with Ivor Novello, later writing music for Alfred Hitchcock’s Stage Fright and war epics such as The Dam Busters, for which he provided the incidental music to supplement Eric Coates’ famous march.

KETỀLBEY CONDUCTS KETỀLBEY Volume 3 A Cockney Suite, Gallantry, I Call You From The Shadows, Blow Blow Thou Winter Wind, In a Camp of Ancient Britons, A Musical Jigsaw, Danse a la Tarantelle, Mind The Slide, Jungle Drums, Aberfoyle, Fiddle Fun, A Desert Romance, Sunset Glow, With Honour Crowned Various Orchestras Naxos 8110869. This collection of recordings dates from 1909 to 1940. The previous two volumes disappointed some buyers who felt that the sound restoration was patchy; it may be worth waiting to read reviews before deciding to purchase, although the price of around £5 is certainly not excessive.

DIMITRI TIOMKIN : "Red River" film score Moscow Symphony Orchestra / William Stromberg Marco Polo 8225217. Starring John Wayne and Montgomery Clift, Howard Hawks’ Academy Award-winning Red River ranks among the best of the classic westerns made in the 1940s.

BRITISH LIGHT OVERTURESVolume 3Open Road (Matthew Curtis); The Hobbit (Carey Blyton);Hampton Court (Montague Phillips); Summer Overture (John Fox); Overture to a Fairy Tale (Bruce Montgomery); Comedy Overture (Adam Saunders); A Children’s Overture (Roger Quilter);Celebration Overture (Philip Lane); The Ballyraggers (James Langley); The Needles (Matthew Taylor)Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland Sanctuary White Line CDWHL 2140. Whilst most people are familiar with Quilter’s A Children’s Overture there can be few who have come across the other overtures on this splendid disc, let alone ever heard them played. In no particular order Hampton Court can be justifiably described as "majestic" in every sense while the rough and tumble of The Needles will put fear into any yachtsman. Matthew Curtis is his usual jolly self in Open Road while Carey Blyton wrote his clever short piece about The Hobbit long before media film hype destroyed the individual mindset created through reading the book. The Ballyraggers is true to the dictionary definition of a word which means "aggressive horseplay" while Philip Lane’s Celebration, John Fox’s Summer and Adam Saunders’ Comedy are overtures to grace the opening of any music festival. Bruce Montgomery’s Fairytale is a lovely wistful item which brings us back to Roger Quilter. This is a great disc. Peter Worsley

BRITISH FILM COMPOSERS IN CONCERT Thieves’ Carnival Overture (Clifton Parker); Two Choreographic Studies (Parker); Ballet de la Reine (Leighton Lucas); Eire Suite (Anthony Collins); Scottish Aubade (Bruce Montgomery); Scottish Lullaby (Montgomery); Palladium Symphony (Eric Rogers)Royal Ballet Sinfonia/Gavin Sutherland Sanctuary White Line CDWHL2145 (71:50). Our habit of "pigeon-holeing" composers and their music often works to our own disadvantage. Frankly, is it really important that music be exclusively "Light" or "Serious"; "Classical" or "Popular"; Traditional or Avant-Garde or Post-Modernist (whatever that means); or written before or after such-and-such a year or period? Anyway, Messrs. Lane and Sutherland, those doughty champions of the long-neglected and the little-known, here explode the possibly still-lurking myth that, because these five composers wrote mainly for the cinema their "other" work can’t be much good. For example: one might easily preconceive a piece bearing the title "Palladium Symphony" as all glitz and superficial showbiz clichés. It isn’t, and if you are familiar with Clive Richardson’s "London Fantasia" and Ralph (not ‘Rafe’ incidentally) Vaughan Williams’ F minor Symphony, listen very attentively – chances are you will be greatly intrigued! Anthony Collins’ "Fluters’ Hooley" was heard from time to time in far-off BBC days, although little if anything else is likely to stir any memories: you are in for some very pleasant surprises! Not, then, for those who "only like what they know"; but real music-lovers go ahead fully confidently. John E. Govier

In their non-pressurised moments several film composers managed to score private light music gems, either for themselves or for their close circle of friends. They would have remained private and eventually been forgotten had not Philip Lane uncovered them and arranged their recording. All the pieces have their own special appeal, the most substantial being the first performance of thePalladium Symphony by Eric Rogers, more usually known for his work with the Carry On films after he succeeded Bruce Montgomery. There was also more to Anthony Collins than Vanity Fair and conducting. Clifton Parker meanwhile scored more than 50 films while Leighton Lucas arranged much of Ivor Novello’s later works. More rich pickings here. Peter Worsley

ALBERT W. KETÈLBEY Volume 3Cockney Suite (State Procession – Buckingham Palace; Cockney Lover – Lambeth Walk; Palais de Dance; Elegy – Thoughts on Passing the Cenotaph; Bank Holiday – ‘Appy ‘Ampstead); Gallantry; I Call You From the Shadows; Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind; In a Camp of the Ancient Britons; A Musical Jigsaw; Danse à la Tarantelle; Mind the Slide (The Troubled Trombone); Jungle Drums; Aberfoyle; Fiddle Fun; A Desert Romance; Sunset Glow; With Honour Crowned.Orchestras conducted by the composer Naxos 8110869, 70:58 mins. This third volume contains a number of rare recordings which are undoubtedly musically important from an historical standpoint, and the compiler Peter Dempsey is to be congratulated for unearthing them. They cover a period from the early acoustics of 1908 up to the more sophisticated electricals of 1940, so understandably the different studios, ensembles and record companies mean that the sound quality varies considerably. Nevertheless in the hands of a talented sound restoration engineer, using state-of-the-art equipment such as CEDAR, good results could be achieved. Sadly this is not the case here, and I have to say that, because of the obtrusive surface noise, listening to this CD was, for me, a tedious experience that I will not hurry to repeat. David Ades

At long last we can hear exactly how Albert Ketelbey thought some of his rare compositions should sound and the results will surprise many of his fans. Several of the recordings are pre-electric but still play well, especially Norman Allin’s bass voice in the superb Blow, Blow Thou Winter Wind andThe Troubled Trombone, a jazzy number which predates the arrival of the Original Dixieland Jazz Band by several months! In aCamp of the Ancient Britons is an exciting piece and most of the others will also delight the ear. If you can identify the 44 different tunes in A Musical Jigsaw then you will be doing well but of special interest is the complete original Cockney Suite, among which ‘Appy ‘Ampstead never disappoints. The sleeve notes are good and this is a bargain CD if you like historic British Light Music – it’s as simple as that! Edmund Whitehouse

CATERINA VALENTE Great Continental Hits (with Stanley Black Orchestra) If You Go, Autumn Leaves, Melodie d’Amour, Too Soon, Volare, I Wish You Love, Song of the Sea, Why Do You Pass Me By etc. Valente & Violins (with Roland Shaw Orch) Love Letters, It Might as Well be Spring, This is all I Ask, Ebb Tide, What Now My Love, Somewhere etc. Vocalion CDLK4125 (postponed from last year). The reissue of these two LPs has been eagerly awaited – not only for Caterina’s distinctive way with a song, but also as an example of Stanley Black’s superlative scores. The second album (with Roland Shaw) is also very good, and together they make an attractive package that should sell very well. David Ades

RONALD BINGE Aldershot Brass Ensemble A Variation on Alouette, A Tune a Day, Trombonioso, Rushlake Green, The Jolly Swagman, A Song for all Comets, etc. The Romantic Guitar with Gerald Tolan Echoes of a Dream, The Ever-Changing Sea, Summer’s End, Fugal Fancy, Where the Sun Shines etc. The Wimbledon Girl Singers Where the Gentle Avon Flows, Sailing By, Down by the River, String Song, The Watermill, Alas My Love You Do Me Wrong etc. Vocalion CDLK4129. These LPs, originally on Refiffusion, are perfect illustrations of Ronald Binge’s versatility. Once he ‘escaped’ from the cascading strings he created for Mantovani, he tried his hand at several different styles, and his many admirers owe a debt of gratitude to Mike Dutton at Vocalion for restoring these fascinating examples of his work to the catalogue. David Ades

MANTOVANI Exodus Exodus Main theme & Karen, A Summer Place, The Green Leaves of Summer, Song Without End, 76 Trombones, The Sundowners, Irma la Douce etc. Great Films – Great themes Barabbas, Fanny, Advise and Consent, Goodbye Again, The Apartment, Never on Sunday etc. Vocalion CDLK4179. Around 40 years ago, some music lovers were getting a little tired of the ‘Mantovani sound’, especially as so many new LPs of his music were constantly being released. Of course, the reason for this abundance was that they all sold well, and hearing them again after several decades it is easy to understand why. For the truth is that the famous ‘sound’ did not overwhelm everything that Mantovani did, and the main thing in his favour was the excellence of the arrangements, the high standards of performance and the top quality recording. If anything, they sound even better today, and this collection of popular film themes (including the unlikely Charles Williams hit theme for The Apartment) will please Mantovani’s many fans. David Ades

HAT BOX : Hat Box(Alan Bullard); Arioso (S.Rak); Greensleeves to a Grand, Brande Yrlandt, Cowarte Monsieur and Fantasia (Anon 17th century); Chadkirk Idyll (E. Tomlinson); Fred’s Blue Ginger Staircase Music (David Ellis); Variations on Dowland’s Comagin (Van Eyck); New World Dances (John Golland) Un Petit Jazz (John Duarte); Bramall Hall Dances (Peter Hope). John Turner (Recorder), Neil Smith (Guitar). CAMPION CAMEO 2020 74.45mins. Apart from the 17th Century Variations and the Stepan Rak piece, all the music on this attractive disc may be described as British light music with at least two great light music composers represented therein. Much of it (though not the Golland and Duarte, both uptempo suites) is also associated with Stockport where David Ellis, producer and composer, lives. Stockport was once famed for hatmaking, so Alan Bullard’s Hat Box, a "thematic suite" in eight brief movements (featuring top hat, beret, Mexican hat, stetson, deerstalker, baseball cap, bonnet and cloth cap) is appropriate. Ernest Tomlinson’s Chadkirk Iydll (Chadkirk is the chapel where the recording was made) was also expressly written for the CD and is the most serious piece here. Ellis’s rhythmic suite (Fred and Ginger are Astaire and Rodgers, of course) and Peter Hope’s Bramall Hall Dances, mixing old and new idioms, both celebrate local buildings. The enterprising John Turner plays brilliantly and Neil Smith partners him well, if a little woodenly in Tomlinson. Philip Scowcroft

BRITISH STRING MINIATURESVOLUME 3Entertainments (Gilbert Vinter); Sospiri (Sir Edward Elgar); Four Folksong Preludes (Peter Warlock); Countryside Suite (John Fox); Elegy (Haigh Marshall); First Suite for Strings (Cyril Scott); Sinfonia Breve (Gareth Walters). Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland Sanctuary Group CDWHL 2139.Essentially British in every respect one can just imagine rural folk wending their way along the lanes long before the now ubiquitous motor car invaded what had hitherto been largely alien territory. Nowadays one has to venture a good way off the beaten track to find peace and quiet but this music, especially John Fox’sCountryside Suite (Morning Air, Black clouds over the moors, My village and Country Folk)speaks for itself. Gilbert Vinter is in his usual jaunty vein with Entertainments, while Elgar’s Sospiri is well-known. The other pieces also hark back to a gentler age when music-making was a very different affair. A rural idyll indeed. Time to reflect and ponder? Edmund Whitehouse

A TRIBUTE TO STANLEY BLACKEarly Black Magic, 25 original recordings 1931-52. Lullaby; Lady Be Good; Lost in the Fog; Honeysuckle Rose; I ‘ain’t got Nobody; Trouble in Paradise; I Won’t Dance; Porcupine Rag; Someday Sweetheart; Roy Club Rag; Gershwin medley; Caravan; Out of the Ragbag medley; Victory Roll Rag; Oasis; South American Way; I threw a Kiss in the Ocean; At the Crossroads; A Sultan goes to Harlem; Jungle Bird; Andalucia; Sans ton Amour; Sulla Laguna; Pianolo; Estrellita. Sanctuary Group Living Era AJA 5490.With musicians like Coleman Hawkins and the full bands of Howard Jacobs, Lew Stone, Harry Roy, Bert Ambrose and Carl Barriteau one can hardly fail to be impressed with this new disc. Before he switched more to light music Stanley Black was a true jazz and dance band favourite, arranging as well as composing and playing the piano. These 25 tracks are amongst his very finest.Edmund Whitehouse

BOB SHARPLES ORCHESTRA Dimensions in Sound Tuxedo Junction, Singing the Blues, Mack the Knife, The Whistler and his Dog, Strike Up the Band, Rocket, Satin Doll, Trolley Song, etc. Contrasts in Hi-Fi On the Road to Mandalay, Will You Remember, By the Bend of the River, Giannina Mia, A Perfect Day, Donkey Serenade, Sylvia, Sweethearts etc.Vocalion CDLK4169. This is another of Vocalion’s excellent value 2-CD packages, offering 2 CDs for the price of one, simply because the two LPs combined last too long to squeeze on to one CD. Rather than cut some tracks (which less honourable record companies might do), Mike Dutton ensures that these reissues are the genuine article. Dimensions in Sound was released in August 1960, and it sounds like a dry-run for Decca’s Phase 4 Stereo, which was launched with much publicity two years later. The instruments are well separated, and I was amused by the comment about Rocket in the original sleeves notes from the LPs producer Ray Horricks: "The sound is quiet, but a good cartridge will separate the instruments." Today we have learned not to want too many gimmicks, so the question has to be – does the music rise above the sound engineer’s games? Just about, although I have to admit that the sound is spectacular! Contrasts in Hi-Fi (released December 1957) was just too soon for stereo, although the arrangements often sound like it ought to be. ‘Contrasts’ is the operative word, because this LP contains so many different styles that one wonders at times what Bob Sharples is up to. Dennis Brain (French horn) and Bobby Pratt (trumpet) are featured soloists on some tracks, and there are four vocal numbers featuring The Sandmen (who actually include girls!). After the initial shock, I think that this CD is likely to grow on you. It’s worth adding to your Christmas ‘wants’ list. David Ades

FREDDY GARDNER and his Golden Tone Saxophone I Only Have Eyes for You, I’m In the Mood For Love, Roses of Picardy, These Foolish Things, Valse Vanité, Body and Soul, Softly as in a Morning Sunrise – plus 19 more Sanctuary Group Living Era CDAJA5454, 77:12 mins. The seven tracks listed above are the last ones on the CD, and they all feature the magnificent playing of Freddy with the Peter Yorke Orchestra, recorded only a few years before his untimely death on 26 July 1950, aged only 39. The other tracks date from 1935 onwards, and showcase Freddy with various small groups and also his larger swing orchestra. There are also five sides from Decca’s Music While You Work wartime series played by Freddy Gardner and his Messmates. Keen fans may already have some of these 78s on other reissues, but this new attractive collection shouldn’t be ignored. David Ades

RADIO AND TELEVISION MEMORIES No. 3 London Calling (Eric Coates), On a Spring Note (Sidney Torch), Bowin’ and Scrapin’ (Reg Casson), Rippling Waters (Donald Thorne), Muse in Mayfair (Vivian Ellis), Table Talk (Dolf van der Linden), Pastoral Montage (Gideon Fagan), Downland (Cecil Milner), Non-Stop (John Malcolm), Cavalcade of Youth (Jack Beaver) etc… This England (Evergreen Melodies) CR4. Sorry there isn’t room to list the contents in full, but a glance at the list will confirm that this CD is packed with light music favourites. In total there are 36 tracks, and some of them are brief extracts from actual shows such as Have a Go, Journey Into Space and Much Binding in the Marsh. Even if you have some of these titles already (and most of you will), it’s always nice to hear them played in a different order, with the additional surprises squeezed in! David Ades This England CDs cost £8.95 (which includes UK postage). Write to: Evergreen Melodies, PO Box 52, Cheltenham, GL50 1YQ, England – tel. 01242 515156 or online at Credit cards accepted.

DAVID ROSE AND HIS ORCHESTRA A ‘Mrs Miniver’ Rose Almost Like Being in Love, Don’t Fence Me In, I Got Rhythm, Hot Canary, El Relicario, Academy Award Medley, Pink Champagne, Ain’t Misbehavin, Little House on the Prairie, Rustle of Spring, Alone Again Naturally, King & I Medley, etc..(Australia) Frank Bristow FBCD97, 77:57 mins. Anyone who knows and loves the music of David Rose, George Gershwin and Jerome Kern will know what to expect from the first of these two CDs, an immaculate performance of some of the best standards of all time which needs no further description from me. I have to admit that the "Mrs. Miniver" reference in thre second obscure title is completely lost on me; the record itself is a blend of twelve David Rose originals done for the World and Muzak companies, presumably for background music, including links of less than one and a half minutes. There are also two tracks, Bewitched and Over the Rainbow, from the Standard label and four Rose compositions from his affiliation with Capitol. Not the best CD from the Rose Orchestra by any means, but a well-varied and contrasted programme that should satisfy almost everyone.Arthur Jackson

FROM THE BOSWORTH LIBRARY Isn’t it a Happy Day, Ivory Antics, Petals, Rain or Shine, Doctor’s Orders, Red Poppies, April Day, etc… (Australia) Frank Bristow FBCD100, 79:08. The Bosworth Library is believed to have started issuing mood music 78s in 1936, to be quickly followed by Boosey & Hawkes. Frank Bristow has collected together 29 sides which I believe all date from the 1930s. When people like Chappell arrived on the scene most mood music was played by a full light orchestra, but many of these early 78s feature small ensembles (no strings) by groups such as the Ragamuffin Syncopators and the Pall Mall Revellers. It’s rather like the kind of music that accompanied the antics of Laurel and Hardy in their first talkies. Anyone with an interest in the history of mood music will want to add this to their collection. David Ades

THE STORY OF TWO LOVES Manhattan Tower Gordon Jenkins Orchestra & Chorus; Atlantic Crossing Ferde Grofé and New Symphony Orchestra. (Australia) Frank Bristow EXCD37, 76:17 mins. Two narrative stories you may remember from the earliest days of microgroove, one of which at least has developed legendary status over the last 50 years. This is, of course, Gordon Jenkins’Manhattan Tower which, despite criticism, stands alone in its subject matter and musical content as one of the finest ’concept’ albums ever produced. First appearing in 1945 on Brunswick 78s (and later on LP) of only 17 minutes’ duration, Manhattan Tower was recreated and augmented by Jenkins as a 48-minute LP under his new Capitol contract, and it is this ‘Hi-Fi’ version that Frank Bristow has elected to use here (obviously it’s not the sort of thing Capitol itself would ever reissue!). I vaguely remember Ferde Grofé’s Atlantic Crossing being issued on Decca LK4037 circa 1950/51, but I never had it in my collection. It is interesting to have as a fill-up to Manhattan, but even to a long-term Grofé admirer it cannot be more than a footnote in his career. Narrated by Anton Dolin and authoress Ethel Levane, it tells a nostalgic story of two Americans finding love in London and Paris, but one can’t help feeling that the whole thing might have been better without the (mostly incomprehensible) dialogue, and letting the music, such as it is, speak for itself. Arthur Jackson

Frank Bristow’s CDs are only available by writing to him at: 2 Cross Street, Brighton, Victoria, 3186, AUSTRALIA or by sending an e-mail to him at: Arrangements can be made for British members to pay with a sterling cheque.

LEROY ANDERSON Classical Juke Box Syncopated Clock, Chicken Reel, Fiddle Faddle, Serenata, Sleigh Ride, Irish Suite, Saraband, Promenade, Trumpeter’s Lullaby, Jazz Legato – Jazz Pizzicato, A Christmas Festival Arthur Fiedler and the Boston Pops Naxos 8120649. In the past few years there have been several fine CDs of Leroy Anderson’s music, which must affect the sale potential of each new entrant on the scene. The emphasis here is on his original compositions and arrangements performed by the Boston Pops between 1947 and 1950. This compilation was in the safe hands of David Lennick and Graham Newton, so you can be reassured that the sound quality is vastly superior to some of the recent ‘vintage’ releases from Naxos. David Ades

New from Apollo Sound:

CAREY BLYTON Film Production Music Volume 2 Capital City, Flying Birds, The Living River, The Goshawk, Revenge of the Cybermen, Death to the Daleks, etc… Apollo Sound APSCD225, 55:49 mins.

These three new CDs from Apollo Sound will be warmly received by the many keen collectors who have welcomed the feast of lounge (or whatever you care to call it!) music that has been resurrected from the archives in recent years. Firstly there is the eagerly awaited second volume of original compositions by Carey Blyton, whose death in July 2002 we sadly reported in JIM 153 (page 58). The first half concentrates on Carey’s work on documentary films, many of them covering wildlife subjects for organisations such as the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. Often a small group featuring mainly woodwinds seems best suited to subjects like this – an area in which Carey excels. The second part of the CD visits his music for TV plays, notably Doctor Who (around 17 short tracks) so the fans of this cult series will be delighted. A surprising inclusion is the familiar Associated Rediffusion station ident from 1966, introducing Carey’s score for "Julie’s Gone". Mention must be made of the impressive 20-page booklet which goes into incredible detail regarding both the composer and his music. A most impressive release.

Next we move on to the ninth in Apollo’s best known series – Test Card Music – and this time all the tracks are from Apollo Sounds’ own archive, having originally appeared on their LPs. The vast majority were recorded in European radio studios during Heinz Herschmann’s frequent (and very productive) tours of the continent, often in countries which were then on the other side of the iron curtain. Names such as The Polish Radio Orchestra, the Franz Thon Big Band, the Budapest Radio Orchestra and Joze Privsek, will be familiar to the growing band of collectors who eagerly devour each new issue. Waving the union jack are Simon Gale and Richard Frank. Here are 20 tracks that will rekindle nostalgic memories of the days when television didn’t invade our homes non-stop for 24 hours each day!

Finally, for this time, we have the second volume from the archives of Mozart Edition (GB) Ltd who (like Apollo) often recorded in Europe. The 19 tracks include a variety of sounds from Hans Hammerschmidt, Borgazzi Fabio, Mario Mellier, Maria Augusta Bruni, De Vera, Sapabo etc… These names will be known to aficionados, and such is the cult status of this kind of music that Apollo have bowed to the wishes of their loyal customers by making some of these CDs also available on vinyl. The ensembles range in size from a trio to a big band and chorus. Of course this isn’t light music – it is best described by the CD cover which calls it Groovy and Scat! David Ades

PETER YORKE AND HIS CONCERT ORCHESTRA featuring FREDDY GARDNER and *STEVE CONWAY "Melody of the Stars" Melody of the Stars; "Till The Clouds Roll By" – Look for the Silver Lining, All the Things You Are, I Won’t Dance, Smoke Gets in your Eyes, Who, Old Man River; These Foolish Things; "Carnival in Costa Rica" – Costa Rica, *Another Night Like This, I’ll Know it’s Love, *Mi Vida; Humpty Dumpty, "Blue Skies" – Blue Skies, You Keep Coming Back like a Song, Getting Nowhere, White Christmas; Dawn Fantasy (featuring Arthur Sandford, piano); "The Time The Place And The Girl" – Gal in Calico, Through a Thousand Dreams, A Rainy Night in Rio, Oh But I Do; How Deep is the Ocean; "It’s Magic" - *It’s Magic, Run Run Run, Put ‘em in a Box, *It’s You or No One; I Only Have Eyes for You; "Night and Day" – Night and Day, Begin the Beguine, Let’s Do It, What is this Thing Called Love, My Heart Belongs to Daddy; *No Orchids for my Lady; "Bambi" – Love is a Song, Let’s Sing a Gay Little Spring Song, Looking for Romance Little April Shower, Love is a Song; Gentle Maiden; "Look for the Silver Lining" – Look for the Silver Lining, Kiss in the Dark, Who, Time on my Hands, Sunny. Sanctuary Group Living Era CDAJA5501.

ERNEST GOLD and BERNARD HERRMANN Film Themes of Ernest Gold It’s a Mad Mad Mad Mad World, The Young Philadelphians, Judgement at Nuremberg, The Last Sunset, Inherit the Wind,Pressure Point, A Child is Waiting, On the Beach, Saddle Pals, Exodus, Too Much Too Soon.London Festival Orchestra conducted by Ernest Gold.The Great Movie Thrillers Psycho, Marnie, North by Northwest, Vertigo, A Portrait of Hitch (from The Trouble with Harry). London Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Bernard Herrmann. Vocalion CDLK4178.

RONNIE ALDRICH Two Pianos – Today You Only Live Twice, A Whiter Shade of Pale, Georgy Girl, Something Stupid, A Man and a Woman, My Cup Runneth Over, Don’t Sleep in the Subway, Release Me, Barefoot in the Park, Alfie, Music to Watch Girls By, This is my Song Soft & Wicked Last Tango in Paris, You’re so Vain, Aubrey, Tie a Yellow Ribbon, Clair, Call Me, Goor Time Charlie’s Got the Blues, Oh Babe What Would you Say, Killing me Softly with his Song, Last Song, Theme from ‘The Valachi Papers’, It Never Rains in Southern California with the London Festival OrchestraVocalion CDLK4188.

STANLEY BLACK Some Enchanted EveningFalling in Love with Love, The Man I Love, So in Love, The Desert Song, Why Do I Love You, Body and Soul, Easy to Love, I’ve Got You Under my Skin, The Night is Young and You’re so Beautiful, All the Things you Are, Some Enchanted Evening, Love for Sale, Lover Come Back to Me, You and the Night and the MusicSummer Evening SerenadeGaviotta, Serenade to Eileen, Siciliano, From Here to Eternity, Memory, Desire, Starlight Serenade, Carnet de bal, Le Grisbi, Magic Circles, Melody of Love, Estrellita del sur.Vocalion CDLK4186.

JOHNNY DOUGLAS AND HIS CONCERT ORCHESTRA "Just Pure Gold" Catch a Falling Star, The Storry of a Starry Night, A Wonderful Guy, La Vie en Rose, Cherokee, Hello Young Lovers, All in a Golden Afternoon, I Feel Pretty, The Song is You, Oh What a Beautiful Morning, Seven Golden Bells, A Summer Place, Allez-vous en Go Away, Green Leaves of Summer, Carousel Waltz, I Still See Elisa, When I’m Not Near the Girl I Love, Lucy’s Theme from ‘Parish’, The Girl That I Marry, Out of my Dreams, This Nearly Was Mine Dulcima DLCD119. 21 tracks arranged by Johnny Douglas taken from his Decca LPs ‘Golden Strings’ and ‘The Broadway Waltzes’.

BRITISH LIGHT MUSIC DISCOVERIES VOLUME 5Kaleidoscope (Peter Hope); Pastoral Reflection(John Fox); Inauguration (Paul Lewis); Adagio Serioso;Rondoletta (David Lyon); Music for Strings(Brian Douglas); Capriol Overture (Gavin Sutherland); Clarinet Concerto (Handel arr. Barbirolli);Haunted Ballroom (Geoffrey Toye); Overture on North Country Folk Tunes (Thomas Pitfield).City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Gavin Sutherland Sanctuary Group CDWHL 2144. Producer Philip Lane has again unearthed several new shining trinkets but this time largely from the more modern musical treasure chests. How gratifying to know that many contemporary composers still believe in melody and it is a fitting tribute to Thomas Pitfield that we can hear more of the music referred to in his obituary. Geoffrey Toye’s Waltz from The Haunted Ballroom will be familiar to many as will some of Handel’s Clarinet Concerto played by Verity Butler – except of course that Handel never wrote it because the clarinet did not exist at the time – we have Sir John Barbirolli to thank for the amalgamation of various violin and other Handellian pieces. Paul Lewis and David Lyon are in good form while Peter Hope is eminently recognisable; even conductor Gavin Sutherland gets in on the act. Edmund Whitehouse

STANLEY BLACK Some Enchanted EveningFalling in Love with Love, The Man I Love, So in Love, The Desert Song, Why Do I Love You, Body and Soul, Easy to Love, I’ve Got You Under my Skin, The Night is Young and You’re so Beautiful, All the Things you Are, Some Enchanted Evening, Love for Sale, Lover Come Back to Me, You and the Night and the MusicSummer Evening SerenadeGaviotta, Serenade to Eileen, Siciliano, From Here to Eternity, Memory, Desire, Starlight Serenade, Carnet de bal, Le Grisbi, Magic Circles, Melody of Love, Estrellita del sur.Vocalion CDLK4186. This is a superb collection from Stanley Black, featuring one LP of great show tunes, while the second album contains many light music gems from the 1950s. Highlights include Carnet de Bal, Le Grisbi and Ray Martin’s Magic Circles. Don’t miss this one! David Ades

RONNIE ALDRICH Two Pianos – Today You Only Live Twice, A Whiter Shade of Pale, Georgy Girl, Something Stupid, A Man and a Woman, My Cup Runneth Over, Don’t Sleep in the Subway, Release Me, Barefoot in the Park, Alfie, Music to Watch Girls By, This is my Song Soft & Wicked Last Tango in Paris, You’re so Vain, Aubrey, Tie a Yellow Ribbon, Clair, Call Me, Goor Time Charlie’s Got the Blues, Oh Babe What Would you Say, Killing me Softly with his Song, Last Song, Theme from ‘The Valachi Papers’, It Never Rains in Southern California with the London Festival OrchestraVocalion CDLK4188. Happily Ronnie Aldrich is now becoming properly represented on disc once again, and this time the emphasis is on selections of contemporary popular songs from around 40 years ago. Many have stood the test of time, and they all sound fine given the polished Aldrich treatment. David Ades

ERNEST GOLD and BERNARD HERRMANN Film Themes of Ernest Gold It’s a Mad Mad Mad Mad World, The Young Philadelphians, Judgement at Nuremberg, The Last Sunset, Inherit the Wind, Pressure Point, A Child is Waiting, On the Beach, Saddle Pals, Exodus, Too Much Too Soon. London Festival Orchestra conducted by Ernest Gold.The Great Movie Thrillers (Music by Bernard Herrmann) Psycho, Marnie, North by Northwest, Vertigo, A Portrait of Hitch (from The Trouble with Harry). London Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Bernard Herrmann. Vocalion CDLK4178. These two Decca albums provide a feast of film music, although one has to admit that keen collectors will probably already have other recordings of much of this repertoire. However it is always good to have the composer conducting his own works, so this is a valuable new release. David Ades

JOHNNY DOUGLAS AND HIS CONCERT ORCHESTRA "Just Pure Gold" Catch a Falling Star, The Story of a Starry Night, A Wonderful Guy, La Vie en Rose, Cherokee, Hello Young Lovers, All in a Golden Afternoon, I Feel Pretty, The Song is You, Oh What a Beautiful Morning, Seven Golden Bells, A Summer Place, Allez-vous en Go Away, Green Leaves of Summer, Carousel Waltz, I Still See Elisa, When I’m Not Near the Girl I Love, Lucy’s Theme from ‘Parish’, The Girl That I Marry, Out of my Dreams, This Nearly Was Mine Dulcima DLCD119. 21 tracks arranged by Johnny Douglas taken from his Decca LPs ‘Golden Strings’ and ‘The Broadway Waltzes’. Purists will be disappointed that these two albums in total lasted longer than the time available on a CD, necessitating the ‘loss’ of several numbers, but these lovely recordings should surely be in everyone’s collection. David Ades

PHILIP MARTIN piano "The Maiden’s Prayer" Rustle of Spring, Humoresque, May Night, The Harmonious Blacksmith, Spring Song, Chanson Triste, Poeme, Poupee Valsante, To a Wild Rose, Narcissus, etc… 24 tracks Hyperion CDA67379. The highly entertaining (and informative) booklet notes by Jeremy Nicholas tell us that this CD is dedicated to the memory of Hyperion’s founder, Ted Perry, who died on 9 February 2003. This was Ted’s own pet project, describing it as "…a disc dying to be made." The subtitle "…gems from an old piano stool" could hardly be more descriptive; many of these works would have been very familiar to our ancestors around one hundred years ago, who relied upon the piano for their musical entertainment in the home. But few would have heard them performed as expertly as Philip Martin, who treats them all with the utmost respect, even though some of them may now be regarded as rather ‘corny’ through their frequent use as silent films music, or as the basis of modern popular songs, where the lyric writer decided to ‘borrow’ his melody from the classics. Indeed many tracks could be used in a musical quiz – the melodies are so familiar, but the titles (like so much light music) are elusive. This is a delightful CD in so many respects, and lovers of piano music should embrace it warmly. David Ades

BILLY MAY AND HIS ORCHESTRA ‘All Of Me’ All of Me, My Silent Love, When My Sugar Walks Down The Street, Fat Man Boogie, Lean Baby, I Guess I’ll Have To Change My Plan, Walking My Baby Back Home (vocal: Nat King Cole), Charmaine, When I Take My Sugar To Tea, etc… 26 tracksMemoir CDMOIR576 73:54 mins. What can you say about Billy May that hasn’t already been written by his many admirers? He is one of the great arrangers and bandleaders of the last century, and the early days in the life of his fine orchestra are represented in these memorable 78s dating from 1951 and 1952. This collection has been intelligently compiled by Gordon Gray, with some superb remastering by Ted Kendall. Malcolm Laycock’s excellent booklet notes will probably tell you things about Billy that you didn’t know before, and it all adds up to a quality production that is warmly recommended. David Ades

PAUL WESTON Orchestra Music for Romancing My Romance, Poor Butterfly, Oirchids in the Moonlight, Gone With The Wind, etc.. Music for the Fireside Love Walked In, Something to Rememebr You By, Tenderly, September in the Rain, etc… EMI 5813582, 72:03 mins. Our friend Ray Purslow of The Record Centre, Birmingham, has been responsible for advising EMI on the reissue of many of the better collections that have surfaced from them in recent years. Unfortunately this particular CD hasn’t been a particularly happy experience for him, because the Americans at Capitol sent over a mono copy of the second LP, instead of stereo. One number – There Will Never Be Another You – appears twice, in both mono and stereo! But this is still very enjoyable music, and you can compare a few of the tracks with the new John Wilson versions, as reported elsewhere in this issue. David Ades

COPLAND: ORCHESTRAL WORKS. Fanfare For The Common Man; Three Dance Episodes from "Rodeo;" The Red Pony Suite; A Lincoln Portrait. ADLAI STEVENSON, Narrator; EUGENE ORMANDY, LOUIS LANE, ANDRE PREVIN, conductors. (USA) Sony Essential Classics SBK 62 401. (64:23 mins). "I felt that it was worth the effort to see if I couldn’t say what I had to say in the simplest possible terms." Thus wrote Aaron Copland (1900-1990) who has been called the Norman Rockwell of American classical music. This CD represents his best known style: lean and athletic in sound with widely spaced harmonies that communicate immediately any listener. The first work is "Fanfare For The Common Man," commissioned by Eugene Goossens for the Cincinnati Symphony during its World War II series of specially written fanfares. Eugene Ormandy and his Philadelphians bring a good deal of opulent, soft grained nobility to their rendition. "Rodeo" and "An Outdoor Overture" are played with gusto and sharp edged playing by Louis Lane and the Cleveland Pops Orchestra. "The Red Pony" suffers slightly from unfocussed recording and odd moments of sloppy playing under Previn’s direction. Yet it has an inner vitality that’s very refreshing. "A Lincoln Portrait" has had many distinguished narrators on record. However, Adlai Stevenson brings a warm friendliness mixed with an eloquence to his narration missing from all other versions. Eugene Ormandy elicits a strongly warm sound from The Philadelphia Orchestra, making this one of the most moving performances on this CD. Only one howler exists in the otherwise well done booklet notes: for "The Red Pony" description, Billy Buck is NOT Jody’s grandfather but the gruff ranch hand. The mastering of these 1959-1965 originals is deeply luxurious. For the beginning listener, this an excellent introduction to one of American music’s beloved icons. Richard Jessen

GORDON LANGFORD’S ORCHESTRAL CLASSICSFanfare & Ceremonial Prelude; Concertino for Trumpet & Orchestra; Four Movements for String Orchestra; A Song for All Seasons; First Suite of Dances; Greenways; Spirit of London; Hippodrome Waltz; Pastorale and March (both from Colour Suite). BBC Concert Orchestra conducted by Ruman Gamba Chandos CHAN 10115. Ernest Tomlinson rates this CD of his old friend very highly indeed and that alone should be good enough for the rest of us mere mortals. Appropriately, Hippodrome Waltz is about the Hippodrome, Golders Green, now home to the BBC Concert Orchestra, where the young Langford was first taken by his parents to experience pantomimes and concerts. The inspiration he gained there is still with him today and this splendid new disc is the answer to why he has remained so popular. There is no real necessity to discuss the other works in detail because if you like Ronnie Binge, Ernest Tomlinson, Trevor Duncan and similar light music composers then you will thoroughly enjoy these works too. How wonderful to know that such serious tuneful music is there for everyone to enjoy and isn’t it about time the BBC sat up and took a bit of notice? Perhaps RFS members could drop a few more hints about the music we love? I do my bit regularly so what about a few more? This CD would be a good one to quote at them. Edmund Whitehouse

‘HONEYMOON FOR THREE’ Songs by BILLY MAYERL You’re Not Too Bad Yourself, Apart from Business, Steak and Kidney Pudding, It Must Be You, I Breathe on Windows, Two of Everything etc… 24 tracks Alex Hassan, piano with Robert Petillo, tenor and Alison Taffs, mezzo-sopranoShellwood SWCD28, 68:46 mins. Billy Mayerl is so well-known as a successful composer of catchy piano novelties, that it often comes as a surprise to many that he was also adept at orchestral works, and songs for stage musicals. This new collection from Shellwood concentrates on the latter, with some charming performances from all three performers. One has to say that it is all very English (although Billy’s parents were immigrants!) and none of the songs became big hits. Most of them come from shows produced in the 1930s, with a few from Billy’s earlier career in the 1920s and one particularly pleasant number Resting from the mid-1940s, which was recorded by none other than Richard Tauber. This CD is an affectionate tribute compiled by enthusiasts for enthusiasts. It can best be described as the kind of music that would have been heard as a vocal interlude in a ‘Palm Court-type’ concert on many seaside bandstands before World War 2. If this kind of repertoire is your cup of tea you’ll be thoroughly captivated, although you may find that you will appreciate the music more if you sample it in small doses from time to time. David Ades

STEVE CONWAY ‘The Best of All’I Could Never Tell, Show Me The Way, Carnival in Costa Rica - Film Tunes Selection, Would You Believe Me, After All, No Orchids For My Lady, I’m Spending The Evening With Friends Of Mine, If All The World Belonged To Me, Honey Child, It’s Magic - Film Selection, Beside You, The Wedding Of Lilli Marlene, Church Bells On Sunday Morning, The Hours I Spent With You, Best Of All, So This Is Love, All My Life, Would I Love You, All Alone with my Heart, Confetti, While You Danced Danced Danced, Chez Moi, With All My Heart And Soul. Sepia 1015. The Sepia label, according to their website intro, was launched in June 2002 with the aim of restoring to the catalogue neglected or almost forgotten quality music of yesteryear. The issue of this Steve Conway disc is, therefore, most welcome, filled as it is with wonderful songs, accompanied by maestros of melody such as Jack Byfield, Reginald Killbey, Philip Green, George Melachrino, Ray Martin, Peter Yorke and even Roberto Inglez, each conveying their own distinctive style which is very much in evidence on this disc. All My Life additionally features The Hastings Girls Choir. The standard of transfers on the Sepia CD is generally very good and it is hard to believe these songs were recorded 50 plus years ago. A short informative booklet is included. The month and year of the recordings are given although matrix numbers are omitted. Several CDs of Steve Conway are now available. There is one sponsored by This England magazine; others have been issued by Pulse and Memoir. Steve Conway tracks are also included on Peter Yorke discs from Crystal Stream, Sanctuary Living Era and Vocalion where he is the featured singer. Unfortunately this does result in significant duplication of tracks. However this Sepia issue is recommended if the compilation appeals and you do not already have the music on other discs. Further details of Sepia issues, including selections from the original Broadway cast recordings of Song of Norway and Roberta, can be found on the Sepia website at www.sepiarecords.co.uk/ Their CDs are available for around £6.99 from UK record stores or online at Sepia Records. Brian Stringer

WINIFRED ATWELL Hall of FameMelodies in the style of other famous pianists including Bill Snyder (Bewitched), Eddie Heywood (Soft Summer Breeze), Fats Waller (Ain’t Misbehavin’), Carmen Cavallaro (Manhattan), George Shearing (I’ll Remember April) etc. …plays Gershwin Nice Work if You Can Get It, Love Walked In, Somebody Loves Me etc and Rhapsody in Blue with Ted Heath Orchestra Vocalion CDLK4177. It may be hard for the younger generation to realise just how big a star Winifred Atwell was when at the peak of her success. She really enjoyed great popularity, especially when playing her pub-style "other" piano (as on the famous Pot Black theme), but on these 2 Decca LPs she is revealing that she was also a trained and highly competent pianist. Perhaps the fact that she is mimicking other pianists on the first album means that her own personality is disguised; the second collection of Gershwin is a better example of her work. David Ades

HUMPHREY LYTTELTON ‘Snag It’Weary Blues; Sunday Morning; Sleepy Time Down South; Georgia On My Mind; Maple Leaf Rag; Come On and Stomp, Stomp, Stomp; Careless Love; Ice Cream; Snag It; I Like to Go Back in the Evening; Dallas Blues; Cakewalkin’ Babies; Trouble in Mind; Panama Rag; Low Down Dirty Shame Blues; On Treasure Island; Trog’s Blues; Wolverine Blues; Suffolk Air; Down Home Rag; Apex Blues; Onions; Blues for an Unknown Gypsy’ Travellin’ Blues’ It’s Over Now; Get Out of Here and Go On Home Humphrey Lyttelton and his Band, 1948-52 ASV Living Era CDAJA 5462. If you heard the BBC radio programme "Humph at 80" then you will know that this remarkable octogenarian is still as busy as ever but keeps his residence a secret from everyone, even those involved in "I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue". It was not always thus and this collection of 26 vintage Dixieland jazz tracks brings back memories of jiving teenagers in London’s post-war West End when Humph was at the forefront of British revivalist jazz. Never one to follow convention he totally ignored the Musicians’ Union ban on foreign artists and not only invited Sidney Bechet to appear on stage but even had the cheek to make two illegal recordings with him (Sleepy Time Down South and Georgia On My Mind)! Other busy revivalist beavers appearing with Humph on this CD include Wally Fawkes, George Webb, Keith and Ian Christie, and Micky Ashman. It’s sure to make your feet tap. Peter Worsley

THE BAND OF THE COLDSTREAM GUARDS : Marche Militaire La Ronde (Gounod); Andalusian Fresco (Durand); Strike up the Band (Gershwin); Jeannie with the Light Brown Hair (Foster); Northumberland Airs (Trad.); State Occasion (Farnon) ;An Age of Kings (Bliss); Deep River (Trad); Milanollo (Hamm); Black Eyes (Trad.); Fanfare and Soliloquy for Band (Sharpe); Winds on the Run (Osterling); Three Blades of Toledo (Sharpe); Cherokee (Noble); Figaro (Mozart), Royal Windsor (Bayco). Castle PLS CD540 (previously released on MACD 176) (57.53mins) This budget priced CD comes with no notes, no information on recording dates or locations, no listed timings for individual tracks and quite extraordinarily, with no conductor at all credited! That’s the Downside! On the credit side we have an interestingly varied programme and with the exception of Track 11 – Sharpe’sFanfare and Soliloquy where the sound is squeeezed and pinched – the engineering is well managed and often approaches demonstration standards. Particularly welcome for the readers of JIM is the inclusion of Robert Farnon’s State Occasion which receives a satisfyingly good performance. A warm welcome too for Frederic Bayco’s fine, stirring and dignified Royal Windsor march. It would be interesting if any reader can furnish more details of the provenance of this recording – are there any serving or ex-Coldstreamers out there who might help? A number of arrangements here are by Lieutenant Colonel Trevor Sharpe so could these sessions date from his tenure with the band? Meanwhile, worth a fiver of anyone’s money! Roger Hyslop

NAT TEMPLE Nattering Around (Temple), Rhapsody in Blue (Gershwin), Make Believe (Kern), Sugar (Mitchell/ Alexander/ Pinkard), It’s the Talk of the Town (Symes/ Neiburg/ Livingston), Concerto for Clarinet (Shaw), Canzonetta (Perry/Temple), On the 5.45 (Warren), American Patrol (Meacham), etc.. This England (Evergreen Melodies) C86. In Britain the name ‘Nat Temple’ is probably still familiar to many people old enough to remember Bernard Braden’s radio series in the 1950s. But before that he had worked with bands such as Geraldo, Harry Roy, Ambrose and Lew Stone, building up a fine reputation for his clarinet playing. This affectionate collection has been assembled from various sources, and includes his own Canzonetta with Geraldo in 1942. Nat celebrated his 90thbirthday this July. David Ades This England CDs cost £8.95 (which includes UK postage). Write to: Evergreen Melodies, PO Box 52, Cheltenham, GL50 1YQ, England – tel. 01242 515156 or online at Credit cards accepted.

VIKKI CARR LIVE AT THE GREEK THEATRE. 20 tracks including It Must Be Him; Can’t Take My Eyes Off You; With Pen In Hand.VIKKI CARR with the BOB FLORENCE ORCHESTRA. (USA) Collectables COL-CD-7515. 91:41. A wonderful concert recording finally sees the light of day on CD! Recorded live in 1973 at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles over a three day engagement, this performance is now heard for the first time in the correct order in which is was heard by those who were there in the audience. Vikki Carr is in great form throughout, singing not only her biggest hits but also a medley of four songs from one of her great albums "En Espanol." The rest of the performance consists of brand new songs sung with all of the depth and authority only Ms. Carr can bring to a song. She’s joined by the breathy voice of Randy Marr who provides his guitar accompaniment. Marr also sings a brilliant solo on "I Wonder Who’s Kissing Her Now." Bob Florence provides strong accompaniments to Ms. Carr’s vocals assisted from some of L.A’s best musicians such as Bob Cooper, Bill Perkins and Bobby Shew - all members of the "Tonight Show" band (all shouting Ed MacMahon’s "Hiyo!" when introduced!). The booklet contains the gorgeous original concert photos plus a beautiful inlay photo of Vikki Carr in casual attire. The miking gives us a great sense of presence on both Ms. Carr’s effervescent voice as well as the excellent musicians and singers (which include Jackie Ward). A vivid performance by one of America’s greatest treasures!Richard Jessen

ROSEMARY CLOONEY: THE LAST CONCERT.Overture; Sentimental Journey; I’m Confessin’ That I Love You; Just In Time; Happiness Is A Thing Called Joe; You Go To My Head; Rockin’ Chair; Ol’ Man River; The Singer; They Can’t Take That Away From Me; God Bless America – with the Honolulu Symphony Pops Orchestra Conducted by Matt Catingub. (USA) Concord Records CCD-2166-2. (44:51 mins). The world lost one of the truly greatest artists on 29 June 2002, when Rosemary Clooney passed on. Rosie always left one wanting more at the end of a concert and this CD, recorded live on 16 November, 2001, presents her in great form. The main focus is on ballads which suited the immediate post 9/11 mood America was going through at the time. "Sentimental Journey" sets the mood with other favorite standards. The last three songs are tributes to Frank Sinatra and Irving Berlin. "God Bless America" sums up personal triumphs in everyone’s life in the opening verse and this is so with Rosie’s interpretation. That she should end her last concert with this song speaks eloquently of how much Rosemary Clooney’s service to American, (and, indeed all music) will mean to each succeeding generation. Richard Jessen

MARIAN McPARTLAND TRIO LIVE AT SHANGHAI JAZZ.Scratchin’ In The gravel plus 11 other tracks. MARIAN MCPARTLAND with RUFUS REID and JOE MORELLO. (USA) Concord CCD-4991-2. A dash of Debussy, mix with Milhaud, baste with Bill Evans, let it cook and - VOILA! - you have Marian McPartland! Add bassist Rufus Reid and drummer extraordinaire Joe Morello and one has this delightful date at the Shanghai jazz Festival in Madison, NJ on 24 April, 2001. Things start off on the right foot with a hard driving "Scratchin’ In The Gravel" on which McPartland, Reid, and Morello all demonstrate their considerable talents. The music of Duke Ellington has been a constant influence on McPartland ever since her days at the Hickory House in the 1950's and she shows her fondness for the Duke by gently caressing the melodic line of "Prelude To A Kiss." The biggest pleasure is hearing McPartland playing her meditative piano solos and none is better than "Black Is The Color Of My True Love’s Hair," which lovely beyond words. The whole set is one swinging delight and should be an essential part of any music lover’s library. Richard Jessen

CARL MICHAEL ZIEHRER – Selected Dances and Marches Vol. 4. Weaner Mad’In – Walzer; Augensprach – Polka Mazur; Duck’ dich, Manderl Marsch; Liebesgcheimnis – Polka; Liebeswalzer; FrauenLogik – Polka Mazur; Ohne Sorgen – Polka schnell; Natursanger – Walzer; Ein Blumchen im Verborgenen – Polka Mazur; Buberl Komm! – Walzer; Konig von Sachsen Huldigungs – Marsch; In Reih’ und Glied – Polka Francaise; Seculo Nuovo, Vita Nuovo – Walzer. Razumovsky Sinfonia conducted by Christian Pollack. Marco Polo 8.223817 (77.14 mins). Anyone on the lookout for a CD of bright, cheerful and attractively scored light music to escape perhaps briefly from the rather sombre world we all have to inhabit in these troubled times, will be well rewarded in investing in this generously filled and vividly recorded Marco Polo disc of Volume 4 of the dance music of Carl Michael Ziehrer. He was one of the principal rivals to the Strauss family dynasty and was nothing if not prolific with opus numbers stretching well into the five hundreds. The best known item in this collection is undoubtedly the Weaner Mad’In (Viennese Girls) Waltz which comes complete with whistling effects presumably produced by members of the orchestra both during the introduction and towards the end , whilst Natursanger ( Nature Singers ) Waltz – a lovely lilting piece , comes with added bird song effects. That this well planned collection contains two military marches should come as no surprise when one learns that Zeihrer was a bandleader no less than three times in his long career! Recommended but with a plea to Marco Polo to get round to the dance music of Joseph Gung’l and Paul Lincke whose waltzes in particular were often a mainstay of many a light orchestra’s broadcast repertoire throughout the "golden age " of BBC Radio. Roger Hyslop

DICK McINTYRE and his Harmony Hawaiians Vol 5. Kailua – with vocalists Ray Kinney, Gary Speare & Danny Kuaana. Kaneohe, Hilo March; Kukuna Oka La; Kuu Ipo; Kehaulani; Palolo; Under A Tropical Moon; My Hawaiian Souvenir; On The Beach At Kualoa; It Happened At Waialae; Our Last Hawaiian Moon; Nani Wale Ka Mahina; Kolopa; Anapau; Kaleponi; Hula Lullaby; Nanakuli Hula; Naughty Hula Eyes; Uhe Uhene. (Australia) Cumquat CQCD 2747. What will our friends from down under be getting up to next? Here is an excellent CD drawn from yet another enterprising Australian catalogue, comprising easy listening music (predominantly Hawaiian of which this CD forms part) and various eras of Jazz, with a particular focus on Australian artists. Time was when Hawaiian music featured regularly in the BBC schedules with groups such as the South Sea Serenaders, the Paradise Island Trio and Roland Peachey. Sadly those days are long gone. It is heartening, therefore to find a small company reviving Hawaiian music in quite a big way. The Dick McIntyre CD consists mostly of tracks far removed from the over-recorded songs with which we have become so familiar in Hawaiian music circles, such as Aloha Oe and Hawaiian War Chant. Those who have fond memories of Andy Iona and Dick McIntyre will find a treasure trove of their music in the catalogue where they already share five volumes each and the project is ongoing. There are too many CDs to list details here, and I suggest that if the genres of music provided are of interest, you should have a look at Bruce’s excellent web site where you can also hear samples of the music. We must be grateful to the growing dedicated band of enthusiasts who are making available once again hard to find recordings of artists and music that are unlikely to see the light of day via a major record company. A few years ago this sort of project would have seemed no more than a dream. I shall no doubt be returning for lots more cumquats…Brian Stringer

Available from www.cumquatrecords.com.au/ or by writing to address shown below - price $27.50 (around £13.00 Sterling) via Credit Card. A printed catalogue is available for those who do not have access to the website. You can write to: Cumquat Records, PO Box 963, Central Park Post Office, Burke Road, Malvern East, Victoria, 3145, Australia. Customers ordering for the first time may be fortunate enough to receive a couple of interesting free sampler CDs.

SIR THOMAS ALLEN More Songs My Father Taught Me I heard you singing, Will you go with me, A Cradle Song, The Green Hills o’ Somerset, Mother Machree, Roses of Picardy, Because, Down by the Sally Gardens, etc… with Malcolm Martineau, piano Hyperion CDA67374, 79:01 mins. Now that we are in the 21st century, no longer can we hear our elderly relatives talking about the Victorian times when home entertainment meant singing round the parlour piano. But clearly the songs from that period created a big impression, because so many still receive the occasional performance today. Sir Thomas Allen is obviously enjoying taking some time off from playing leading roles in the top opera houses of the world, and this CD is likely to win him many more admirers. The excellent booklet notes by Andrew Lamb give not only the lyrics but also potted biographies of the composers. This is a worthy successor to the first volume on CDA67290. David Ades

TRIBUTE TO ERIC COATES /EDWARDIAN FAVOURITESTribute to Eric Coates – London Bridge; The Enchanted Garden; By the Sleepy Lagoon; Cinderella; Second Symphonic Rhapsody – Bird Songs at Eventide/I Heard You Singing; Footlights Edwardian Favourites – Paul Rubens Melodies; Josef Strauss Pot-Pourri; Lionel Monckton Melodies; Edward German Melodies Pro Arte Orchestra/Stanford Robinson Vocalion 2-CD set CDLK4183 (1:42:06 total time). Following the death of Eric Coates, Pye were quickly out with a fine memorial album. Austin Coates provided the sleeve-notes; and one of his father’s major scores – "The Enchanted Garden" – received its first recording. Scores, maybe hundreds of our readers will have these works already – some of them, perhaps, in several versions. Further good reason for adding this CD to your library may well be found on its Siamese twin! "Edwardian Favourites" features "Robbie" (BBC colleagues mostly knew him thus), as a lively arranger: I particularly enjoyed his treatment of those prolific tunesmiths Paul Rubens and Lionel Monckton. With two exceptions – "Sleepy Lagoon" and "Footlights" – stereo tapes are the source of everything: the original LP releases were mono only. The original sleeve-notes are also used. I hope that Mr. Dutton will give us some more Pro Arte material in due course: Gilbert Vintner’s "World of Light Music", for an instance. John E. Govier

PERCY GRAINGER / BRITAIN’S CHOICECD 1: Percy Grainger – Country Gardens ; Molly on the Shore ; Londonderry Air ; Handel in the Strand ( David Parkhouse – piano ); Mock Morris ; Shepherds Hey ; Childrens Overture Op 17 (Quilter) ; The Haunted Ballroom (Toye); Dusk (Armstrong Gibbs) Shepherds Fennel’s Dance ( Balfour Gardiner); CD 2 : March from the Colour Suite (Langford); A La Claire Fontaine ( Farnon); Suite of English Folk Dances (Tomlinson); March from ‘A Little Suite’ (Duncan); The Boulevadier (Curzon); The Watermill (Binge); Tabarinage (Docker); Suite – The Ring of Kerry (Hope).The Light Music Society Orchestra conducted by Sir Vivian Dunn KCVO. OBE, FRAM. Vocalion CDLK 4182 (93.49 mins). This double CD set from Vocalion conveniently groups together all the recordings Sir Vivian Dunn made for EMI in 1970 with the Light Music Society Orchestra. Thus it should appeal not only to the many admirers of Sir Vivians’ art but to all those who respond to high quality light music delivered in ‘Rolls Royce ‘ performances. Roger Quilter’s sparklingChildren’s Overture is delivered with an enchanting wide-eyed gleam and well sprung rhythms and is distinctly to be preferred to the rival Marco polo alternative with the Czechoslovak RSO under Adrian Leaper (British Light Music – Roger Quilter 8.223444). The second CD opens with a well spirited account of Gordon Langford’s March from the Colour Suite. Robert Farnon’s A La Claire Fontaine is marvellously atmospheric and according to Derek Oakley’s biography of Sir Vivian, ‘Fiddler on the March’, R.F. publicly acclaimed this recording as "by far the finest he had heard ". Mr. Oakley also mentions that Sir Vivian included this piece as his sixth choice on 6th November 1971 when he was Roy Plomley’s guest on BBC Radio’s ‘Desert Island Discs’. This is a highly desirable addition to the Vocalion catalogue and with bright and vivid sound, a fine and worthy tribute to the talent and genius of a great and unique musician who made an indelible and lasting mark in both the military band world and the cause of music in general. Roger Hyslop

For close on 23 years I purchased most of my LPs – and, latterly, my earliest CDs – from an independent classical record shop in Birmingham: small, yet widely known and highly respected among West Midlands record buyers. The proprietor and his staff were unfailingly helpful and reliable, musically knowledgeable and utterly impartial; so when these two albums, then new, featured in a prominent shop display, it spoke volumes for their quality! Now, well over thirty years on, here together are two of British Light Music and the LP Era’s greatest glories; and sounding, if anything, finer than ever. Come to think of it, this notice could quite easily have consisted of one word only: essential!

John E. Govier

TWO SIDES OF RON GOODWIN: CD1 – The Early Years – Popular Singles Jet Journey, Blue Star, Skiffling Strings, Lingering Lovers, Colonel Bogey and the River Kwai March, Summertime in Venice, Red Cloak, The Melba Waltz, The Messenger Boy, The Girl from Corsica, Swedish Polka, Under the Linden Tree, Concetta, On the Waterfront, The Headless Horseman, Midnight Blue, The Song of the High Seas, The Laughing Sailor, Tropical Mirage, Handyman, Three Galleons, Guadalcanal March, The Little Laplander, Wagon Train, When I Fall in Love, Bluebell Polka, Song from Moulin Rouge, Josita, Elizabethan Serenade. CD2 – Original Compositions from Films and LPs 633 Squadron, Love Theme from 633 Squadron, The Trap, Those Magnificent Men In Their Flying Machines, Lancelot and Guinevere, London Serenade, Return My Love, Where Eagles Dare, Mercury Gets the Message, Cafè Royal Waltz, Decline and Fall, Frenzy, El Morocco Tea Rooms, Operation Crossbow, Jumping Jupiter, Monte Carlo or Bust, India, Miss Marple’s Theme, The Milky Way, Kill or Cure, The Girl With the Misty Eyes, Departure, Aces HighRon Goodwin and his Concert Orchestra2-CD Tribute Album EMI 582 5502Although Ron Goodwin is taken from us, his unique contribution to British and World Music remains, inspiring and indestructible. By all means, hang on to your original singles and LPs as I shall mine, for old times’ sake; but on no account whatever pass up this splendid, fully worthy memorial to THAT MAGNIFICENT MAN AND HIS MUSIC MACHINE. John E. Govier

THE BOURNEMOUTH MUNICIPAL ORCHESTRA Merry Middies, Raindrops, Clatter of the Clogs, Crocus Time, Dance of Seville, A Fairy Ballet, Zip Zip, Intermezzo Pizzicato, Dicky Bird Hop, Echoes of the Valley, Whispering Pines, Fluttering Birds, Gee Whiz, Rosewood Ripples, Idylle Bretonne, Slippery Sticks, Language of the Nightingale, Oriental Dance, Jolly Whistlers, Dance of the Nymphs, The Merry Brothers, The Two Imps, Rippling Streams, Carlsbad Doll Dance (Australia) Frank Bristow FBCD104, 76:45 mins. Except for Intermezzo Pizzicato, which is conducted by its composer Montague Birch, all of the titles on this charming CD are conducted by the legendary Sir Dan Godfrey. These 78s were recorded by Columbia in the Pavilion or at the Winter Gardens in Bournemouth between 1927 and 1934, and they capture a period of English seaside musical entertainment that would finally disappear following the outbreak of the Second World War. A few brief attempts may have been made to resurrect this kind of genteel music-making during the 1940s and 1950s, but by then the world had changed too much. Happily through the wonder of sound recording (assisted by today’s excellent remastering techniques – in this case in the capable hands of one of the very best sound engineers, Alan Bunting) we can still marvel at the highly professional musicianship of the performers, and the composers who created such attractive novelties for them. The name J. Gennin crops up several times, as does T. de la Riviera and W. Byrne. Ernst Slaney is credited on both xylophone and cello – could he be related to the composer Ivor Slaney? In fact the xylophone is prominent on several tracks, usually performed by W.W. Bennett. Arthur Jackson has contributed the fascinating booklet notes, helping to make this a most desirable collection that should attract everyone who is passionate about traditional light music, as it used to be played. David Ades

MORTON GOULD AND HIS ORCHESTRA ‘An MG Round-Up’ High Noon, On Top of Old Smokey, Wagon Wheels, I’m and Old Cowhand, Riders in the Sky, Tennessee Waltz, Home on the Range, Buckaroo Blues, Last Round-up, Cowboy Rhapsody, On the Sunny Side of the Street, Diane, Avalon, 12th Street Rag, La Mer, Tell Me That You Love Me, Speak to Me of Love, Tea for Two, Through Your Eyes to your Heart. (Australia) FRANK BRISTOW FBCD105, 78:04 mins. To make my prejudices known at the outset, can I just say that cowboy songs, especially of the Tin Pan Alley variety, have never been my favourite music, even in Morton Gould settings. He does the best he can with the first ten tracks, of course, but even his own compositions, Buckaroo Blues and Cowboy Rhapsody, can’t escape the general air of ennui inevitable with this sort of material. If you don’t share my tastes (or lack of taste, however you feel about it) you can, of course, decide for yourself! The popular standards on the last nine tracks are more traditional Gould, although over the top in one or two cases, La Mer and 12th Street Rag for instance. The CD as a whole is a bit of a curate’s egg … in fact Frank Bristow does hint that he is more or less scraping the bottom of the barrel. Though I must say that in the present musical climate no light music album should be ignored. Arthur Jackson

Frank Bristow’s CDs can only be obtained direct from him in Australia: Frank Bristow, 2 Cross Street, Brighton, Victoria, 3186, Australia – e-mail: Arrangements can be made for British members to pay with a sterling cheque.

READER’S DIGEST ‘The Wonderful World of Music’ Reader's Digest UK's long running series of "themed" collections of light/popular all orchestral/instrumental music in 3 CD boxsets titled "The Wonderful World of Music" appears to have restarted again. I thought the series had come to an end when I received my 12th 3-CD boxset sometime last year, so I was delighted to receive an unexpected parcel during the summer from Reader's Digest containing another 3 CD boxset called "Sounds to Soothe" (catalogue number RDCD3431-3). Then soon afterwards, another parcel arrives from Reader's Digest containing another 3-CD boxset. This time titled "The Early Years" - catalogue number RDCD3541-3. This means that so far Reader's Digest in the UK have released 14 CD boxsets in the ‘Wonderful World of Music’ beautiful orchestral music series. As there are three CDs in each boxset, that makes a total of 42 CDs of "our kind of music" and that doesn't include a couple of boxsets of beautiful orchestral music Reader's Digest have released in the past outside the ongoing ‘Wonderful World of’ series. Regarding "The Early Years" 3-CD boxset, there is just under an hour of music on each CD. The total price is £28.95 including postage and packing. You get the usual glossy booklet (approx 24 pages) with full details on every track. The first CD is called "Twilight Dreams". The second CD is called "Through The Years" and the third CD is called "Forever In Your Heart". As with all these CDs, the sound quality is excellent. You also get the usual mix of artists/orchestras eg. on the Early Years 3-CD set, you have Roland Shaw and his Orchestra, Fracis Goya, his Guitar and Orchestra, Larry Sinclair and his Orchestra, Romantic Strings and Orchestra, Frank Chacksfield, Roger Williams, his Piano and Orchestra, Douglas Gamley and his Orchestra, Robert Mandell and his Orchestra, Nick Ingman and his Orchestra......etc etc. Well I can't wait to receive the 15th 3-CD boxset from Reader's Digest. How long can they keep this series going? Not that I am complaining, I hope this superb series of beautiful orchestral music never ends. For some reason, Reader’s Digest UK do not mention "The Wonderful World of Music" CD collection on their website! I highly recommend these CDs to everyone. Unfortunately, they are not available to anyone living outside the UK, I assume for copyright reasons. If you live in the UK, you can contact Reader's Digest on 08705 113366 between 8am and 6pm Monday to Friday and on Saturday from 8am to 1pm. Chris Landor

THE CATS AND THE FIDDLE We Cats Will Swing For You - ASV Living Era AJA5475 We Cats Will Swing For You; Killin’ Jive; I’d Rather Drink Muddy Water; Gang Busters; Thursday Evening Swing; Nuts To You; Till the Day I Die; Mr Rhythm Man; Please Don’t Leave Me Now; When I Grow Too Old to Dream; Public Jitterbug No. 1; I Miss You So; That’s Jack; Gone; You’re So Fine; Swing the Scales; Hep Cat’s Holiday; I’ll Always Love You Just the Same; One is Never Too Old to Swing; I’m Singing so Help Me; I’m Gonna Pull My Hair; I Don’t Want to Set the World on Fire; Blue Skies; Another Day; Stomp, Stomp; Life’s Too Short. If you can imagine a cross between Fats Waller, the Mills Brothers and King Louis the Ape singing in the cartoon film Jungle Book then you will just about capture the sound of this relatively unknown American group whose recording dates were virtually synonymous with the Second World War. It is also interesting to note that the phrase "Hep Cat" is older than many of us imagined. The Cats were the four singers and the Fiddle was their double bass accompaniment. The only other instrument was an acoustic guitar but the resulting sound was both melodious and pleasant. An unusual CD and a revealing find for those who enjoy close harmony.Peter Worsley

ENSA COMPLETE CONCERTS featuring radio broadcasts by Henry Hall, Geraldo, RAOC Blue Rockets, Robert Farnon and Lou Preager. Rex Records REXX300. We mentioned this 2-CD collection in our last issue (page 5) because of the Robert Farnon connection, but it has been suggested to us that we should also indicate that the other broadcasts included will be fascinating for many readers. The names of the vocalists will sell this release to many – Frances Day, Johnny Green, Dorothy Carless, Western Brothers, George Melachrino, Beryl Davis, Dick James, Carole Carr and Edna Kaye – to name just some.

Three more 2-CD sets have followed from Rex, which we list for your information:

REXX301 Charlie Kunz – his famous piano medleys: perhaps a bit too much to digest in one go, but enjoyable to visit in small doses

REXX302 Spike Jones and his City Slickers – a lot of collections by this zany American band are already available, but if you haven’t yet acquired any you’ll probably find many of your favourites here

REXX303 Family Favourites – quite simply a very varied compilation of popular 78 from just over 50 years ago. Sadly the famous signature tune With a Song in my Heart by Andre Kostelanetz and his Orchestra has been edited. DA

TROISE AND HIS MANDOLIERS Play to Me Gypsy - ASV Living Era AJA5492 Speak Easy; Play to Me Gypsy; Nights of Gladness; In the Hills of Colorado; La Paloma; Hungarian Dance No. 5; Beside My Caravan; Dark Eyes; Serenade; Ballerina; Café in Vienna; Zampa; Old Monastery Bell; Destiny Waltz; Serenata; Argentina; Gypsy Moon; Serenade No. 1; Beside the Singing Waters; Sorrento; Gypsy Dance; Hawaiian; Havana Heaven; El Relicario; Lady, Sing Your Gypsy Song. If you cannot afford to take your wife to a Neapolitan restaurant then all you have to do is buy some pasta at the local supermarket, turns down the lights in your dining room and put this latest disc on your CD player. The singer is Don Carlos and the flavour is almost authentic because Pasqual Troise really did come from Naples, even though he spent most of his life in the UK, initially with Sidney Firman’s BBC Radio Dance Band. The sound is more than just mandolins with at least one piano accordion taking most of the melodies. The sound transfer is good with the recordings dating from the Thirties before he turned into Troise and his Banjoliers for the radio programme Music While You Work. Edmund Whitehouse

PHIL KELSALL at the Wurlitzer Organ of the Tower Ballroom, Blackpool "Shall We Dance?"Grasmere GRCD 117 (also on cassette GRTC 117). There are a few artists who can be assured that every new recording they release will receive a warm welcome from devoted fans. Phil Kelsall certainly falls into this category, and this new collection of popular tunes split up into 23 medleys – and played in strict-tempo for dancing – will be echoing in dance halls around the world for a long time to come. Dance records have always been steady sellers (remember the page after page of 78s by Victor Silvester, Joe Loss and Harry Davidson in the catalogues half a century ago?), and talented performers like Phil Kelsall manage to appeal to two kinds of audience, because his attractive arrangements are also good to listen to at home. David Ades

ROB MCCONNELL TENTET Music of the Twenties Thou Swell; Remember; Lover Come Back To Me; Can’t We Be Friends; Always; I Can’t Believe That You’re In Love With Me; Indian Summer(time);How Long Has This Been Going On; You Do Something Go Me; With A Song In My Heart; What’ll I Do. (Canada) Justin Time JUST 196-2.This is the third CD release by the Rob McConnell Tentet since its formation at the end of 1997, and right off the top the tight ensemble work on Thou Swell reminds the listener just what a great group this is. Rob’s liner notes, as usual, are both informative and very amusing, and add an extra dimension to the enjoyment of this CD. The eleven tracks allow everyone in the group to have several solos, and on Thou Swell, Rob notes that finally he was able to find a way to feature every member of the band on one tune. Bassist Steve Wallace is showcased on Rick Wilkins’ Remember, the only chart not penned by the leader himself, and in Lover Come back the alto sax of P.J. Perry moves from a pensive opening into an up-tempo display of virtuoso playing, to which Dave Restivo adds his own touches of brilliance. Can’t We Be Friends features great work from Rob and Terry Promane on trombones. Guido Basso chose Alwaysfor his solo opus, and makes an old tune into a thing of beauty. While Rob’s liner notes for I Can’t Believe… only mention Dave Restivo’s sparkling solo, Rob’s own contribution is also very worthy of mention. Alex Dean’s solo on Indian Summer(time) is slightly more restrained than usual, but no less inventive (Rob describes it as ‘the less troubled Alex Dean’!), and Steve Wallace’s fine-toned bass solo is the kind you don’t talk through. At the end, Rob inserts the Summertime segment, with a modest tribute to Miles Davis and Gil Evans, with Guido Basso doing a great imitation of Miles. Terry Promane’s status as one of Canada’s best trombone players is underlined in his solo on How Long Has This Been Going On, to which are added the sleek tenor sax ruminations of Mike Murley, who comes back later on in With A Song In My Heart to show that he’s equally fluent at twice the tempo in half the time. On this chart, Dave Restivo goes from fills to thrills, to offer some very imaginative and nimble keyboard explorations. Oh, and you might find yourself, as I did, hearing the verse of Without a Song for the first time, and thinking what a great tune it is in itself. Can’t recall Andre Kostelanetz ever playing it. Alex Dean lets loose a bit more, but never substitutes flash for creativity, on You Do Something To Me, which is driven along impeccably by Terry Clarke, who gets to exchange fours with Alex toward the end – and is, throughout the CD, the time rock on which the Tentet firmly stands. Finally, trumpeter Steve McDade, after contributing his fine ensemble work throughout the CD, gets his own chance to shine on What’ll I Do, which he does with a finely burnished performance.Fans of Rob McConnell will buy this one anyway, and won’t be disappointed. For those who don’t know the name – try listening to Thou Swell, and you’ll know just what to expect from the rest of the CD. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed either. Pip Wedge

HANDS ACROSS THE SEA – AN ANGLO-AMERICAN MEDLEYSOUSA: Hands across the Sea, ANSELL: Plymouth Hoe, BERLIN: Puttin’ on the Ritz, CESE: Little English Girl, CARMICHAEL: Hoagy Carmichael in Concert, ARNOLD: English Dances No.s 6 & 8, HOWE: The Guards Division, arr. LOWDEN: The Big Band Bash, GRUNDMAN: The Blue and the Gray, STECK: Royal Review, arr. PRYCE: Don’s Days’ Hits, FILLMORE: The Klaxon, MYDDLETON: The Boys of the Old Brigade The Band of the Guards Association directed by Geoff Broome – Irish Guards (Retd.)The Specialist Recording Company RHC01 (72’31"). One is sometimes reminded that waiting for recordings of a favourite piece of music is not dissimilar to waiting for a bus – nothing for ages than three come along almost together. John Ansell’s stirring seascape ‘Plymouth Hoe’ was recently included in a compilation CD to mark the 25th Anniversary of the International Military Music Society (CHEVRON CHVCD12), and then resurfaced again as a component of British Light Concert Overtures Vol. 2 by the Royal ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland (ASV CD WHL2137). Here it is again in a sparkling performance by the Band of the Guards Association, but this Anglo American musical medley offers many other attractions including two of Malcolm Arnold’s delightful English Dances, whilst the Guards Division March by Jimmy Howe – a former distinguished DOM of the Scots Guards, ingeniously interweaves snatches of the various regimental marches of the various components of the Household Division into his score. Older listeners may recognise Arnold Steck’s ceremonial march as it was used many years ago as the signature tune of BBC Television News. The Band of the Guards Association is made up of the former musicians from the seven regiments of Her Majesty’s Household Division, and one of the most impressive features of this disc is, given the different style of playing demanded in a programme of this nature how effortlessly and with consummate ease this ensemble switches convincingly from military to big band and back again. Beautifully refined playing is there in abundance when appropriate, whilst there is nothing inhibited in the approach to the more extrovert numbers. Intonation is always impeccably reliable. This recording reflects great credit to all involved in its production and if I may briefly mount a favourite hobby horse of mine – what a tragedy that so many first class military bands are denied access to the airwaves of our national radio network – even brass bands get a better deal! This disc is nonetheless recommended with all possible enthusiasm for all those who relish and enjoy superb wind band playing. Roger Hyslop Specialist Recording Company CDs are available from Discurio, 46 High Street, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1LD, England (tel/fax 01634 845222).

MAX SCHÖNHERR (1903-1984) 2-CD collection of his music from the archives of Austrian RadioDie Grosse Wiener Rundfunkorchester conducted by the composer(Austria) ORF CD 327. Earlier in this issue (page 36) you will have read the sad news of the passing of Prof. Karl Grell, whose activities as a record producer in recent years have made many fine recordings from the Austrian Radio archives available to a wide public once again. This collection is his final project, intended to celebrate the centenary of the distinguished Austrian composer and conductor. His name may not be well-known outside his homeland, although our friend Alexander Schatte points out that the only important biography about his life and work was written and published in England. The collection includes several suites, plus many shorter works – often polkas or waltzes. Clearly Max Schönherr was a master of light concert music, and these two CDs (each lasting over 70 minutes) will give a great deal of pleasure to admirers of ‘straight-forward’ light music performed by a large orchestra who are looking for something they haven’t heard before. David Ades

TROISE AND HIS MANDOLIERS ‘Play to me Gypsy’ Argentina; Ballerina; Beside My Caravan; Beside The Singing Waters; A Cafe In Vienna; Dark Eyes; Destiny Waltz; Gipsy Moon; Nights Of Gladness; Old Monastery Bell; La Paloma; Play To Me, Gipsy; Serenade (Notturno D'Amore); Serenade [Serenata] (Toselli); Serenade No.1(Heykens); Spanish Gipsy Dance; Speak Easy; Zampa Overture - With Don Carlos – Vocals Sanctuary-Living Era CDAJA5492. The release of CDs featuring mandolin ensembles are fairly rare nowadays. This new Troise from original Rex 78s recorded between 1934 and 1936 is therefore most welcome. The CD features a mix of light music, popular songs, and light classical items, adapted for the Mandoliers. Several items feature Irish operatic trained tenor Christopher Thomas Birrell O'Malley who used the much shorter pseudonym of Don Carlos when he sang with the Mandoliers which sounds much more cosmopolitan and more in keeping with the group's musical style. Flapper issued a CD of the Mandoliers a few years ago which should still be available; fortunately only six tracks on the new CD appear on the earlier Flapper, so there is still a good deal of material which is appearing for the first time in digital format making the purchase worth while even if you have the earlier CD. The sound quality on the current issue is generally very clear with negligible background noise, although perhaps not quite up to the stunning quality of issues like Pink Champagne on the same label. Informative notes on the contents are provided by Ralph Harvey, and the attractive cover design is very colourful….pity there is no photograph of the Mandoliers as a group, however. Troise was also well known for his Banjoliers. At least 24 Banjoliers tracks were recorded on the Decca Music While You Work label, so I suspect it would not be too difficult to put together a CD. Meanwhile we are indebted to ASV for making these historic recordings of the Mandoliers available once again for us to enjoy. Brian Stringer

THE ROMANTIC HARMONICA MUSIC OF PAUL LEWIS ‘Serenade & Dance’ The Secret World of Polly Flint, Woof! Fantasy, Two Miniatures, Impromptu for Harmonica and Harp, Spring Suite, Tea for Three, Pavane, Seal Morning, Serenata, A Somerset Garland, Norfolk Rhapsody, Serenade and Dance, The Benny Hill Waltz James Hughes – harmonica, Elizabeth Jane Baldry – harp, The Delamere String Quartet conducted by Paul Lewis Campion CAMEO 2024. Happily the music of Paul Lewis is now readily accessible, thanks to the recent Campion CD of his television music (CAMEO 2018 – reviewed in JIM 153), and several of his works which have appeared in various Sanctuary Group compilations in their White Line series (the latest example being the first CD in this feature). Partly due to his work providing the incidental music for the TV series "Woof!", he has become more and more interested in the harmonica, originally through the great Tommy Reilly (who played on the earlier "Woof!" episodes), and more recently with James Hughes, who is one of today’s leading exponents on the instrument. Paul also has a great love for the harp, and the magical sounds of Elizabeth Jane Baldry are an added bonus in this delightful collection. Here is music which will soothe and charm – and bring the occasional smile. Bravo Campion for releasing this CD! David Ades

SIGMUND GROVEN (Harmonica) ‘Over the Rainbow’ Over the Rainbow, Send in the Clowns, Londonderry Air, Irish Medley, The Entertainer, Ribbon of Sand, etc.. (17 tracks) (Norway) Grappa GRCD 4195. Fans of the harmonica have a second CD to enjoy in this issue, thanks to our good friend Sigmund Groven (both Sigmund and Paul Lewis are members of the RFS). Sigmund was one of Tommy Reilly’s many students, and it is nice to see that this collection includes Tommy’s arrangement of Gavotte from ‘Mignon’ and his Golden Girl which he co-composed with James Moody – who has also arranged some other numbers. Sigmund also composes, as you can hear onHomeward Bound and Song of the Harmonica. This enjoyable CD may be difficult to fin in record stores, but we’ll be pleased to put you in touch with Sigmund if you’d like to buy a copy. David Ades

THOSE MAGNIFICENT MEN – A TRIBUTE TO RON GOODWIN Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines – March, Freefall, Monte Carlo or Bust – Selection, Luftwaffe March – Aces High, Theme from ‘The Trap’, Prisoner of War March, Frenzi, City of Lincoln March, Suite: Time Traveller, 633 Squadron, Where Eagles Dare, Battle of Britain March, The White Rabbit, The Headless Horseman, Force Ten from Navarone, Tall Ships, September 15th 1940, Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines – Selection The Band of the Parachute Regiment directed by Captain Paul Goodwin MBE BA (Hons) Dip. Mus. (Open) ARCM LRSM BBCM psm BANDLEADER BNA5178 (70’30"). A timely and most welcome salute from the military band world to the late and estimable Ron Goodwin comes not altogether inappropriately from the Band of the Parachute Regiment. Many of the expected favourites are here in this compilation of his work, but the value of this disc is considerably enhanced by the inclusion of a number of rarities, many of which were the result of special commissions. Foremost amongst these being the ‘Suite: Time Traveller’, which came from and was first performed by Bromley Youth Music Trust in 2002 in honour of H.G. Wells who had lived in the town and is commemorated by a blue plaque inset into the wall of the local Alders Store in the High Street. The stirring City of London March was a commission from the BBC and received its first outing by the BBC Concert Orchestra and The Central Band of the RAF. Ron Goodwin wrote White Rabbit for the Bournemouth Symphonic Brass whilst Tall Ships was the result of The Royal Tournament Series of works for Wind Band and first performed in 1996 by the massed bands of HM Royal Marines at that years Royal Tournament – a greatly and much missed by many people military ‘spectacular’. September 15th 1940 as its name suggests was commissioned by The Central Band of the RAF to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. The Parachute Regiment Band give a good account of themselves of the recording made in Flagstaff House, Colchester, whilst acceptable is a little tight and unyielding and would have benefited from greater transparency. The band would have been heard to deservedly more impressive effect in a more flattering and sympathetic acoustic. Nonetheless, a desirable and enterprising addition to the Goodwin discography which should have wide appeal to all his many admirers. Incidentally, by one of those strange quirks of coincidences not only does the D.O.M. carry the Goodwin appellation but also the Bandmaster – one WOI Steve Goodwin! Roger Hyslop

MICHAEL BUBLE Fever, Moondance, Kissing a fool, For once in my life, How can you mend a broken heart, Summer wind, You'll never find another love like mine, Crazy little thing called love, Put your head on my shoulder, Sway, The way you look tonight, Come fly with me,That's all. (USA) 143 Records-Reprise 9362-48535-2).Another contender for Sinatra's crown steps forward! He has plentyof back up! Arrangements by Bill Holman, David Foster, Don Costa, Johnny Mandel, Billy May, Don Costa and John Clayton, backed on one track by Barry Gibb, on others, star musicians (often with a string section). A quick perusal of most of the titles shows singers in thepast have already made hits of the songs (often with the same arrangements!). That said he looks (on the sleeve) a heart throb in the mould of Chet Baker, has a voice not unlike a subdued Bobby Darin (when he was one of the singers trying to fill the gap left by Sinatra's exit from Capitol Records). I hope I will be proved wrong but by trying to entertain in many different styles of music could be a mistake. Main hope for the producers and artist is that the new generation will not know the originals and hail his talent as the male equivalent of Diana Krall. Paul Clatworthy

DEODATA "Skyscrapers" Title track, Flap, Rudy's, Soccer game, The first stone, Elizeth, The Byrd, The gap, Down the hill, Boy meets girl, Carly and Carole. (USA) IRMA 509563-20 - available Compact Disc Club. CD releases by the Deodata Orchestra are not as prolific as I would like so it's a shame that this selection includes two tracks already out, the title track and "Carly and Carole" (twice before!) By way of compensation you get nine tracks I have not heard before, five written by Deodata, two by Marcos Valle, one each by Mascarenhas and Alves. Deodata sitting on some tracks at a Hammond organ goes a little over the top (Fairground style!) but when playing piano is a delight, Sergio Mendes fans will find plenty of music to enjoy but I enjoy my Deodata more with strings in attendance! Paul Clatworthy

GARY McFARLAND – STEVE KUHN "The October Suite"One I could have loved, St Tropez Shuttle, Remember when, Traffic patterns,Childhood Dreams, Open Highway. (USA) Impulse 654413-2. Most readers know I like my strings lush but Gary was such an inventive writer I am prepared to make an exception! Another mitigation is that we lost Gary far too early, so his recordings are not exactly available in quantity! This album utilises only four strings, four woodwind, drums, bass and harp plus the piano of Steve Kuhn. A similar line-up was used on some of Gary's other albums, "Does the sun really shine on the moon", "Scorpio and other signs", "The In sound" and "The Gary McFarland orchestra". The last named (which had Bill Evans as guest soloist) would have made a nice pairing with this release as we get just over thirty minutes worth! That said it would also pose the question: did Steve Kuhn hear the earlier recorded Bill Evans vehicle and say "I would like some of that!" Gary was never schooled in string writing but his melody lines and ardent romanticism shines through on every track. The first title Gary wrote for a film "13". It is revamped on track five under the title, "Childhood dreams". The remaining four tracks Gary wrote especially for the recording. Another gem from the "Impulse" back catalogue gets a very welcome reissue. Paul Clatworthy

SHORTY ROGERS AND HIS GIANTS Bossa Nova – Jazz Waltz Lorito's samba, No more sadness, Melancholy samba, One note samba, Sugar loaf, Empashgi's samba, Love is a rose, Only you, Cry your sadness, Only one love, Little brown boy, I'm gonna go fishin', Greensleeves, Walk on the wild side, Witchcraft, Be as children, Jazz waltz, Echoes of Harlem, A taste of honey, Terrence's farewell, The streets of Laredo. (USA) COLLECTABLES COL-CD-7504. Two LP transfers from the Reprise label originally released in 1962 will undoubtedly get a new audience second time around. Shorty did the rounds of many labels but always gave his all (which was plenty, whether playing, arranging or composing). He embraced the "Bossa" era as good as any, his own unique style bringing new life to a genre then dominated by guitar and saxophone. They are still part of the set-up but Shorty injects extra flavours into the twenty one tracks. Paul Clatworthy

THE BOB FLORENCE LIMITED EDITION Whateven Bubbles UpDukeisms, Nerve endings. Chelsea Bridge, Running with scissors, Kissing bug, Never let me go, Q&A, Whatever bubbles up.(USA) SUMMIT RECORD DCD 360. I got a copy of this CD via Ralph Enriquez, and by the time this review is printed one of the suppliers listed at the end of last issue’s "Big Band Roundup" (JIM 155 page 68) will be able to supply. Five originals by Bob plus two Billy Strayhorn and the beautiful ballad "Never let me go" make up Bob's latest outing from his new home since the demise of the "Mama" label. Eighteen albums on by his own Big Band and the spark is still there! Rich and invigorating sounds from a star studied orchestra who delight in showing what a Big Band is all about. Bob's solo piano on "Never let me go" is wonderful but I would have liked to hear some voicing from the complete band. That said, chalk up another hit for the Bob Florence sound. Paul Clatworthy

RUBY BRAFF AND STRINGSSwinging on a star, Pennies from heaven, Love walked in, Old folks, Goodnight, my love, Moonlight becomes you, I married an angel, Please, Love thy neighbour, April in Paris, Go fly a kite, In the wee small hours of the morning, All alone, I get along without you very well, You're sensational, Too-Ra-Loo-Ra- Loo-Rai, My heart stood still, White Christmas. ARBORS RECORDS ARCD 19219. Ruby recorded half of this CD twenty or so years ago for the proprietor of the Pizza Express Jazz club The arranger for the strings was Neil Richardson, recommended to Ruby by Robert Farnon. It met with great acclaim at the time of issue on LP and as a limited edition soon became a collectors item. Recently Mat Domber got permission to reissue as a CD and took the decision to add eight more newly recorded tracks arranged by Tommy Newsom. The new tracks feature a smaller string section but complement the earlier recordings in every way, not least in the choice of songs. Ruby's cornet playing is just as elegant as ever and he points out this album will please jazz and orchestral fans alike, sometimes lush, sometimes muted sometimes swinging, all the ingredients essential for good listening. Paul Clatworthy

SYMPHONIC IMPRESSIONS OF OMAN (Lalo Schifrin) Prelude and Variations,Molto pia animato, Allegro vivace, Andantino, etc… London Symphony Orchestra conducted by Lalo Schifrin.Scherzo Music 028. No Jazz to meet the Symphony Orchestra this time! It’s Lalo in classical mode, inspired by the traditional music of the region. It mentions the Oman Ministry of Information but does not say in what capacity. It was recorded in October 2001 and confirms Lalo is master of his craft in any type of music. Sometimes pensive, sometimes majestic, always palpably exciting – when something’s this perfect you wonder why anyone else bothers. This CD demands serious attention.Paul Clatworthy

BRITISH FILM CLASSICS 2 CDs of themes, preludes etc. from various Chandos collections of music by leading British film composers Chandos CHAN241-12. Jeff Hall has mentioned this new collection in his Film Music Bulletin, so this is just to remind you that over 140 minutes of glorious film music is available at a bargain price. Many favourites are here (featuring composers like Ron Goodwin, Arthur Bliss, Richard Rodney Bennett, William Alwyn, Eric Coates, William Walton … etc) but the compilers have also sensibly included some less well-known works which provide a nice balance plus some pleasant surprises. Sorry we can’t spare the space for a full tracklisting here, so look our for this in your local record store, or visit the Chandos website (www.chandos.co.uk) for all the details. David Ades

A few late arrivals are given a Quick Spin…

MICHAEL BALL ‘A Love Story’ This Guy’s in Love With You, What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life, I Wish You Love, I Wish I Were in Love Again, etc.. EMI/Liberty 07243 5919492. Michael Ball is one of the best present-day British singers, and the titles above will give you an idea of the quality songs on his new CD. If you fancy some modern vocals this Christmas, you could do far worse than this. DA

SORTIES D’ARTISTES Music by André Messager (France) Les Verres Luisants LVL 005. We have mentioned this talented French group of enthusiastic musicians previously, and their latest collection salutes the work of a composer who gained an international reputation for Véronique, Madame Chrysanthéme and other operettas around 100 years ago. An attractive booklet (in French) provides an ideal accompaniment to some delightful performances. DA

CHRISTMAS CLASSICS Orchestral and choral music performed by The Hallé Orchestra conducted by Carl Davis with Claire Rutter, soprano and Choir Sanctuary/Hallé CD HLL 7504. In time for Christmas comes this delightful seasonal offering, with works by Leroy Anderson Sleigh Ride, of course), Irving Berlin’s White Christmas and Morton Gould’s setting of The First Nowell andJingle Bells), and a generous helping of other pieces by the likes of John Rutter, J.S. Bach, Tchaikovsky and even Sir Paul McCartney. DA

ELIZABETHAN & BAROQUE DRAMA Chappell Recorded Music Library CHAP 292. The lion’s share of the music on this new production music CD has been composed by RFS member Adam Saunders; the rest are authentic Elizabethan songs arranged by Richard Cheetham. The music is performed by the Academy of Ancient Music and the Orchestra of the Renaissance. Adam tells us that they were very fortunate to secure the services of these ensembles, which are two of the best of their kind in the world. Chappells wanted to have something unique in their library, which would give a truly authentic sound for period drama, historical and architectural programmes. Clearly the result is most impressive, although Adam admits that he had to do a lot of research before he actually put any notes on paper. I suspect that Adam may well find himself in demand for more work of this kind in the future. David Ades Chappell CDs are only available from the RFS Record Service, price £9 [US $18] each.

In Journal Into Melody 143 (June 2000 – page 62) we reported on some new CDs issued by BMG Production Music in Italy, which proved popular with many collectors of this kind of music. We are pleased to report that a further batch of 8 CDs are now available, containing some interesting (and often funky!) Italian sounds as before. Some of the composers may be familiar – Angelo Francesco Lavagnino, Ennio Morricone, Pino Donaggio, Franco Micalizzi, Nino Oliviero, Luigi Zaninelli, Carlo Savina, Gianni Ferrio, Domenico Modugno, Gianni Marchetti, Marco Tiso … and many more. The CD titles give a good indication of the contents.

BPM3010 Amazing Adventures

BPM3011 Rome By Night

BPM3012 Neorealism – Italian Post-War Cinema

BPM3013 Children

BPM3014 War

BPM3015 Classic Western

BPM3016 Crime & Spy Themes Vol. 2

BPM3017 Love Themes Vol. 2

The earlier 9 CDs are also still available, and we are pleased to advised that we have now secured fresh supplies of the eight Atmosphere Music CDs of Paxton Mood Music 78s (full listing is available from us). In the past couple of years we have had to disappoint several members who were seeking these CDs, so this is your opportunity to acquire them at long last. We can also now supply the later Atmosphere CDs from the Ember catalogue (see also JIM 143). BPM and Atmosphere CDs are only available from the RFS Record Service for £9 [US $18] each, plus postage and packing as usual.

Just in time to meet the Editor’s deadline come the four much delayed Percy Faith 2-on-1 reissues on Collectables from the States. THE COLUMBIA ALBUM OF VICTOR HERBERT [COL 7565] is another of those albums one never expected to find on CD. All the old favourites are here such as Ah! Sweet Mystery Of Life, March Of The Toys, and A Kiss In The Dark – a total of 23 glorious melodies in sparkling string laden 1958 vintage stereo.

Brass and woodwind feature in NEW THING, coupled with CLAIR [COL7561], released in 1974 and a product of a new trend dictated by the then CBS recording policy. Standout tracks are Chuck Mangione’s Hill Where The Lord Hides, the engaging Washington Square, and a stringy Stranger On The Shore. On the second album from a year earlier, the title tune itself is disappointing with female voices, but there is some good stuff including that fine Moody Blues tune Knights In White Satin. Of particular interest is 2001, Faith’s adaptation of Also Sprach Zarathustra by Richard Strauss. Regrettably, Sony does not provide any track background information.

BON VOYAGE/CAREFREE [COL 7563], from the early 60s, couples a collection of "Paris and Rome favourites,’ like Guaglione, Anema E Core, Petite Fleur and Under Paris Skies, with a selection entirely written and arranged by Faith. This includes Go-Go-Po-Go, which was the "B" side of Summer Place, the delightful Brazilian Sleigh Bells and Goin’ Home Train as well as the title track. A most welcome return for a well-loved album

On his admirable Percy Faith Discography website, Alan Bunting describes Gene De Paul’s score for the musical LI’L ABNER [COL 7564], recorded mono only in 1957, as "superb". Unfortunately Sony Stateside has coupled it with a BROADWAY BOUQUET from a mono master rather than stereo. If you cannot wait for the promised re-pressing, this wonderful album is still available in stereo on Sony in Britain, paired with the equally attractive COUNTRY BOUQUET. One up to the Brits! Peter Burt

BRITISH LIGHT MUSIC DISCOVERIES - Volume 4 Partita (John Rutter); Suite Française (Sir Richard Rodney Bennett); March - The Padstow Lifeboat (Sir Malcolm Arnold); Fantasy on Dover Castle (David Fanshawe); Battersea Park Suite (William Blezard); Dance Diversions (Michael Hurd); A Miniature Symphony (Paul Lewis) Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland ASV CD WHL2131, total timing 70:41 minutes. [This disc is also available in Super Audio format, playable on conventional equipment, on ASV CDWHL9131 - price £18]. ASV inform us that their first three discs of British Light Music Discoveries have proved immensely popular, and this fourth release in an already acclaimed series shows just how rich a seam British Light Music is. This time seven composers are represented, some well-known but others now receiving well deserved attention. Sir Malcolm Arnold’s stirring The Padstow Lifeboat is newly presented in orchestral guise. John Rutter’s Partita, inspired by Sir William Walton’s piece, pulsates with the spirit of the dance, as does Michael Hurd’s 1972 Dance Diversions. Sir Richard Rodney Bennett uses a French folk-song as the basis for his delectable Suite Française, while David Fanshawe (of African Sanctus fame) stays the English side of the Channel for his highly atmospheric Fantasy on Dover Castle. William Blezard contributes a children’s suite for small orchestra, conjuring up ecstatic delights of the old Battersea funfair in south London. Finally we come to an old friend of many RFS members, Paul Lewis, composer of many television themes and works for production music libraries. He gives us a mighty symphony - lasting just four minutes! If this sounds like short measure, we can tell you that Paul’s music will be appearing on another CD soon, and you’ll receive full details via this magazine. All the performances here are world premieres, and we have no hesitation is recommending that this CD should be added to the collection of all readers who have enjoyed the previous three in this series.

David Ades

Previous CDs in this series are still available - price £10 [US $20] each:

British Light Music: PERCY WHITLOCK Concert Overture - The Feast of St. Benedict; Ballet Of The Wood Creatures; Wesses Suite; Suite - Music For Orchestra; Come Along Marnie; Susan The Doggie And Me; Holiday Suite; Balloon Ballet; March - Dignity And Impudence RTE Concert Orchestra conducted by Gavin Sutherland, with Malcolm Riley, organ Marco Polo 8225162, 71.48 minutes. Coming up through the English Cathedral tradition, Percy Whitlock (1903-1946, RCM trained) was later (1930s) appointed Municipal Organist in Bournemouth: a place with an enlightened attitude regarding British Music, thanks to Sir Dan Godfrey and like-minded people. Percy’s beloved instrument appears from time to time in this cheerful, civilised, outgoing programme, which calls for no space/time wasting analyses - excepting perhaps the final item where the Dignity is self-evident, and those who know their Elgar won’t fail to spot the Impudence!

John E. Govier

Percy Whitlock is remembered primarily as an organist; many organists, however, have written lightish music and Whitlock had light music opportunities as Organist of Bournemouth Pavilion. This well recorded and excellently played issue, sponsored by the Percy Whitlock Trust, explores his orchestral music (mostly written under the pseudonym Kenneth Lark) which is in the best traditions of British light music. Wessex Suite and Holiday Suite both begin with a waltz and end with a reasonably lighthearted march; the latter’s middle movement, Spade and Bucket Polka, quotes Cherry Ripe. Dignity and Impudence pokes fun at, yet pays homage to, Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance and the deliciously scored ballet pieces and song transcriptions, all composed for a charity matinee, have great charm. Music for Orchestra, put together from bits and pieces dating from throughout his (sadly, not long) career, features, appropriately, a prominent organ part. The CD should delight all light music devotees; one is only surprised that Whitlock’s work in this direction should have taken so long to be fully recognised.

ERIC COATES ‘British Light Music’ By The Sleepy Lagoon; Summer Days Suite - In a Country Lane, On the Edge of the Lake, At the Dance; Wood Nymphs; The Jester at the Wedding - March, Valse; Symphonic Rhapsody on ‘I Pitch my Lonely Caravan’; Symphonic Rhapsody on ‘I Heard You Singing’ and ‘Bird Songs at Eventide’; London Suite - Covent Garden, Westminster, Knightsbridge; Summer Afternoon; Cinderella; London Bridge. Eric Coates conducting various Symphony Orchestras Naxos 8110173, 59:53 mins. In 1994 and 1996 Conifer issued two 2-CD collections of music by Eric Coates, but both have now been deleted. Therefore it is good that some of these historic recordings should be in the catalogue again, even though Naxos are only offering us one-fifth of the amount previously available. The booklet cover announces that these are ‘Historical Recordings 1926 to 1940’, which is a period when Coates was well established as an important composer, following his earlier success as a writer of ballads. This new CD concentrates on Coates conducting his own works, and all tracks were previously available on Conifer, where Ted Kendall was responsible for the remastering. Seven years later sound restoration techniques have improved considerably, but I have to say that this new Naxos release sometimes compares unfavourably with Ted’s work for Conifer. The orchestral sound is often quite good, with a rich and warm full-bodied feel, but a little more effort should have been made to reduce the background noise. This is all the more noticeable because the sound engineer has followed the annoying Pearl habit of leaving a couple of seconds at the beginning of some tracks before the music actually commences. Maybe the CD was made before the final remastering had been completed? The very first number creates a bad impression with glitches right from the start; then the three 1926 recordings of the Summer Days Suite have the worst background noise of all (far less obtrusive on Conifer), making one fear for the rest of the CD. Happily things do improve, but it might have been better if Naxos had chosen, say, London Bridge to open the collection. But don’t let these minor criticisms put you off buying this CD, if you do not already have these important recordings in your collection. We hope that this will be a long-running series from Naxos (the second was advised as we went to press - see below) and perhaps later issues will pay a little more attention to unwanted surface noise. David Ades This CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £5 [US $10].

TED HEATH AND HIS MUSIC : Gershwin for Moderns The Man I Love, Love Walked In, Nice Work If You Can Get It, Love Is Here To Stay, Clap Your Hands, I Got Rhythm, But Not For Me, Someone To Watch Over You, That Certain Feeling, Embraceable You, Changing My Tune, Soon Rodgers for Moderns Have You Met Miss Jones, There’s a Small Hotel, It’s Easy to Remember, My heart Stood Still, Down By The River, Thou Swell, The Lady Is A Tramp, Where or When, This Can’t Be Love, I Married an Angel, Dancing On The Ceiling VOCALION CDLK4110, 61:40 mins.

NORRIE PARAMOR AND HIS ORCHESTRA: In London In Love The Nearness Of You, Stairway To The Stars, Stardust, Embraceable You, Stars Fell on Alabama, The Touch Of Your Lips, All The Things You Are, I’ll Get By, Deep Purple, Someone To Watch Over Me, Dearly Beloved, The Very Thought Of You Autumn Autumn In New York, Ev’ry Street’s A Boulevard In Old New York, November Song, Autumn Concerto, Love In A Tower, Autumn In London Town, Autumn Leaves, Manhattan, Lullaby Of Birdland, Broadway Melody, Penthouse Serenade, Harlem Nocturne (USA) Collectors’ Choice CCM-190-2. I have to admit that I avoided Norrie Paramor’s LPs when originally released because I found the occasional words by the soprano rather annoying. Having listened again, I’m afraid that my views haven’t changed. Few probably share my dislike of this feature, and Norrie has certainly created some really beautiful string sounds for these two albums. It would be a pity to pass them by. David Ades

ANDRE KOSTELANETZ : Music of Cole Porter Begin the Beguine, All Through The Night, I Concentrate On You, I Love You, Night And Day, In The Still Of The Night, I’ve Got You Under My Skin, Blow Gabriel Blow Music of Vincent Youmans Hallelujah, Time On My Hands, Tea For Two, Carioca, Without A Song, Great Day, More Than You Know, Orchids In The Moonlight, Sometimes I’m Happy, I Know That you Know, Through The Years, Drums In My Heart (USA) Collectables COL 6630.

THE VERY BEST OF HUGO WINTERHALTER Count Every Star, I Wanna Be Loved, Mr. Touchdown USA, Beyond The Blue Horizon, Blue December, A Kiss To Build A Dream On, Blue Tango, Somewhere Along The Way, Vanessa, Blue Violins, Music Box In Blue, The Velvet Glove, Latin Lady, The Little Shoemaker, The Magic Tango, Song Of The Barefoot Contessa, Land Of Dreams, The Little Musicians, Canadian Sunset, Swingin’ Sweethearts. Taragon (USA) TARCD 1080

THE POP SIDE OF LES BAXTER Zing Zing Zoom Zoom, The Roving Kind, Because Of You, Unless, Shrimp Boats, Blue Tango, Please Mr. Sun, I’m Yours, Kiss Of Fire, Auf Wiedersehen Sweetheart, Indian Summer, Suddenly, April in Portugal, Ruby, I Love Paris, Gigi, Tropicana, Elaine, Wake The Town And Tell The People, The High And The Mighty, Blue Mirage, Unchained Melody, Blue Star, I’ll Never Stop Loving You, The Poor People Of Paris. Collectors’ Choice Music (USA) CCM 161-2

TWILIGHT TIME - The Starry Night Orchestra - Arranged and Conducted by John Fox. YESTERMUSIC 619528 (2CD Set) 30 tracks of lush orchestral music from an almost bygone age. Anyone who used to enjoy listening on BBC Radio 2 to the strings of The Radio Orchestra playing the superb arrangements of John Fox back in the 70's and 80's will welcome this compilation of titles originally recorded for syndication to the American Easy Listening radio stations. John Fox who, unlike Radio 2, is still very much with us, tells me that the orchestra, led by George French, consists of 18 violins, 6 violas, 6 cellos, 2 flutes and oboe plus harp, piano and rhythm. Some tracks feature Bobby Harrison on flugel and the technically superb recordings were made at the famous CTS Studios, engineered by Dick Lewsey. Titles range from standards to hits of the 70's and include The Nearness Of You, East Of The Sun, You Go To My Head, A Certain Smile, Always On My Mind, Love Is A Many-Splendoured Thing, The Song Is You, The Summer Of '42, People, Cherish, Dear Heart, Stormy Weather and With A Song In My Heart plus many others. This is an excellent compilation and should be in the collection of every lover of lush arrangement for strings. At the time of writing it was being advertised by mail order company Music And Memories (02072 333000). Alan Bunting

KAREL KOMZAK : Waltzes, Marches and Polkas Razumnsky Symphony Orchestra Conducted by Christian Pollack MARCO POLO 8225175. Komzak (1850-1905), of Bohemian extraction, worked as a military bandmaster in Vienna but his waltzes and polkas have always been overshadowed by those of the Strauss family, only Buden Maidens being at all well known. This duly figures on this splendidly played and recorded CD, along with three other waltzes - Magic of May, Phantom and New Life, all expansive and gorgeously tuneful in an individual way; they are in no sense copies of Strauss. These mingle with four marches and sundry polkas and other miniatures, plus the lively overture to Komzak’s only operetta Edelweiss. There were in fact three generations of musical Karel Komzaks, and the first (1823-93) is represented here by an attractive polks francaise. The ordhestra is from Solvakia and, I repeat, plays well. All told this is a delight of a disc and one hopes Marco Polo’s enterprise is rewarded. Philip L. Scowcroft

DANCE BAND RARITIES: British Dance Band Fans who still have a soft spot for the likes of Jack Jackson, Jack Hylton, Roy Fox, Ray Noble, Carroll Gibbons, Billy Cotton, Jay Wilbur, Lew Stone, Geraldo, Harry Roy, Jack Payne and many more will need no further encouragement! With the emphasis on rare material, there should be few duplications with records already in your collection. Memoir CDMOIR 549, 71:44 mins.

THE RED SOMBRERO - More Light Music Favourites: BOSTON PROMENADE ORCHESTRA - Arkansaw Traveller, La Golondrina, Sleigh Ride, Serenata; ANDRE KOSTELANETZ - Adios, Song of India; CHARLES WILLIAMS - Rhythm on Rails (Williams), Sleepy Marionette (Williams), The Laughing Violin (Mortensen); ROBERT FARNON - How Beautiful Is Night (Farnon); QUEEN’S HALL LIGHT ORCH / ROBERT FARNON - Manhattan Playboy (Farnon); SIDNEY TORCH - Beachcomber (Clive Richardson), Caribbean Caprice (Len Stevens), The Red Sombrero (Ronald Binge); ETHEL SMITH (organ) - The Green Cockatoo; THE COLUMBIA ORCHESTRA - Running Off The Rails (Clive Richardson), Stringopation (David Rose); PETER YORKE - Melody Of The Stars (Yorke), Humpty Dumpty (arr. Yorke); MORTON GOULD - La Cumparsita; QHLO / SIDNEY TORCH - Jamaican Rumba (Arthur Benjamin), The Boulevardier Frederic Curzon). Memoir CDMOIR 553, 67:25. Following on the great success of "Fiddle Faddle" (CDMOIR 539 - see JIM 143, page 56) last year, here is another fine compilation from Memoir. It is becoming increasingly difficult for new collections like this to avoid duplications, and readers are likely to spot a few. But there are also some welcome newcomers, and Light Music fans should not hesitate to add this CD to their collections. Jim Palm has contributed some excellent booklet notes and Ted Kendall has worked wonders with his remastering (he also did the four previous memoir CDs listed above). Occasionally some surface noise is evident, but at a quite acceptable level. With a Song in my Heart is a case in point; every reissue I’ve heard seems to have problems with this recording, but at least Ted hasn’t tried to mask the difficulties by leaving out the opening, or a big chunk at the end, as on the recent disappointing Empress CD. Perhaps our non-British readers might wonder why this particular recording crops up so frequently; the reason is that it introduced Family Favourites a long-running BBC record request programme still remembered with affection by the over 40’s! Top marks to Memoir for another fine CD. David Ades

ERNST FISCHER : "Rhapsody" Jugendstreiche (Concert overture), In Dur und Moll (Concerto for Piano and Orchestra), Suite - In Vino Veritas, Heimkehr und Rückblick (from the suite - Ferientage), plus three songs from ‘Das Land ohne Musik (Land Without Music). WDR Radio Orchestra conducted by Peter Falk. (Germany) Monopol Records 5240, 49:15 mins. This is a further tribute to the distinguished German composer Ernst Fischer (1900-1975) who would have celebrated his 100th birthday last year. The only disappointment is that this CD lasts barely under 50 minutes - surely he deserves a greater honour! However Fischer’s masterpieces of light concert music are so entertaining that each new release is most welcome. Once again this new CD illustrates the rich melodies he created, brilliantly orchestrated for full orchestra. The highlight of the programme is unquestionably his 18-minute concert work for piano and orchestra "In Dur und Moll", composed in 1951. In the four varied movements - Introduction, Scherzo, Intermezzo lirico and Rondo-Finale - Fischer pulls out all the stops, including a lively piano part which represents a real challenge for any pianist. The young German pianist, Beate Berthold, performs it here with great style and enthusiasm. The other orchestral works are also very entertaining. Three vocal items are taken from Ernst Fischer’s only operetta "Das Land ohne Musik". They reveal another, lesser known aspect of his creativity. The CD was recorded in Cologne in 1993, with a sharp and vivid sound which perfectly captures the WDR Radio Orchestra to its best advantage. Hans Schubert, one of Fischer’s good friends, has written the booklet notes which contain many interesting details of his life and work, previously unknown to the general public. We learn how Fischer successfully declined membership of the NSDAP offered to him by the Nazis. Also that his composition Truppen-Parade (Military Parade) was banned because it was not sufficiently military sounding! Alexander Schatte

PHILIP LANE British Light MusicLondon Salute; Diversions on a Theme of Paganini (9 short pieces including 5-a-Side); Cotswold Dances (Seven Springs, Badminton House, Pittville Promenade, Cleeve Idyll, Wassail Song); Divertissement for Clarinet, Harp & Strings; Three Christmas Pieces (Sleighbell Serenade, Starlight Lullaby, Christmas Eve Waltz); Maritime Overture; Three Nautical Miniatures for Strings (When the Boat Comes In, Spanish Ladies, Portsmouth); Prestbury Park.Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland. MARCO POLO 8.225185, total timing 72:57 mins. Here at last is a whole CD devoted to this most English of composers who is rightly acknowledged as the country’s leading expert on recreating and re-scoring lost film music. Nobody has done as much as Philip Lane in promoting and producing CDs of British Light Music in recent years and this first release of his own music is therefore to be welcomed with open arms. Gloucestershire-born it is not surprising that some of the tunes relate to the Cotswolds and his home town of Cheltenham. Prestbury Park is the posh name for Cheltenham Racecourse, Seven Springs is the source of the River Thames, while Pittville Promenade, based on the composer’s perambulations as a child in Pittville Park, could just as well apply to Cheltenham Promenade where earlier this century the aristocracy and those "below stairs" were not allowed to meet! Cleeve Idyll relates to the highest point on the Cotswolds, Badminton House conjures up images of jodhpurred-young ladies leaping fences on their ponies, while Wassail Songevokes young bobble-hatted and scarf-clad carollers singing underneath home made lanterns at Christmas. All the music on this disc is what one would expect from a master craftsman - soothing, jaunty, moving, jolly, evocative but above all, thoroughly enjoyable. No crash-bang-wallop and discordant assaults on the ear here, just excellent tuneful music which deserves to be widely heard. Peter Worsley Marco Polo CDs are available through the RFS Record Service – price £12 (US $24).

THE FILM MUSIC OF WILLIAM ALWYN – Volume 2 The Crimson Pirate, Green Girdle,Take my Life, A Night to Remember, The Card, Desert Victory, Svengali, The Winslow Boy, In Search of the Castaways, State Secret BBC Philharmonic conducted by Rumon Gamba Chandos CHAN 9959, total timing 77:29 mins. Back in 1993 Chandos gave us the first volume of Alwyn’s film scores (CHAN 9243), arranged by the late Christopher Palmer. Readers may recall that Palmer was involved in many fine albums of film music, and his death at an early age was regarded as a great loss. Fortunately his pioneering work in reconstructing ‘lost’ scores has been continued by Philip Lane, who deserves the thanks of us all for his superb achievements in this field. Many of the films in this collection regularly turn up on our television screens, but only three in this selection have been previously available in any form. Rumon Gamba has deservedly received much praise for his previous recordings, and his empathy with Alwyn is evident. Apart from the music, the CD booklet is excellent, with comprehensive notes and many photographs. These two CDs of Alwyn’s film music form an important part of the history of the British film industry in the 20th century, and we can only applaud Chandos for making this music available to a wide audience. David Ades All CDs in the Chandos catalogue can be ordered from the RFS Record Service – full price issues are £12 (US $24) each.

ANDRE KOSTELANETZ conducts Show Boat, South Pacific, Slaughter on Tenth Avenue, An American in Paris and Porgy and Bess Philadelphia Orchestra etc. (USA) Collectables COL-CD-6800, 73:31 mins. These classic performances from 1951-1954 provide glorious examples of the American musical theatre. Slaughter on Tenth Avenueis the same recording as on the recent Vocalion CD, and of course the other works will all be familiar, although not necessarily in these arrangements. Show Boat is a major opus in its own right, lasting some 22 minutes. Gershwin, Rodgers and Kern have seldom sounded better than this. David Ades

ANDRE KOSTELANETZ conducting his own Orchestra and the New York Philharmonic: "A Kostelanetz Concert" Invitation to the Dance (Weber); La Bamba de Vera Cruz (Tucci); Vocalise (Rachmaninov); Mosquito Dance (White); Flight of the Bumble Bee (Rimsky-Korsakov); Minuet (Boccerini); Mississippi Suite (Grofé); Marche Miniature, None But the Lonely Heart (Tchaikovsky); Roumanian Rhapsody (Enesco); Circus Overture (Toch); Love of Three Oranges – March, Wedding Suite (Prokoviev); Saturday Night (Kay); Stars and Stripes Forever (Sousa) (Australia) FRANK BRISTOW 77:56 mins. The latest CD from Frank Bristow in Australia is completely classical in format which, of course, offers no scope for the unique and individual Kostelanetz arrangements. There are standard settings of Invitation to the Dance, Bumble Bee, Boccherini’s Minuet, Love of Three Oranges and odd bits of Tchaik and Rach, but some may be less familiar. For instance, Hershey Kay’s Saturday Night from his ‘Western Symphony’ is quite superb, there’s a masterly performance of the Mississippi Suite, Ernst Toch’s descriptive overtureto Circus (which may grow on me in time),Roumanian Rhapsody and, especially, the Wedding Suite from Prokoviev’s ballet "Stone Flower" which was new to me. This is quite typical of the kind of programme Kosty used to present in his Lincoln Centre Promenades with the New York Philharmonic-Symphony, which he conducts here in these Columbia and Coronet recordings, apart from six tracks by his own orchestra. Arthur Jackson For details on how to obtain Frank Bristow’s CDs, please refer to page 84 of our last issue (re Louis Levy).

LEROY ANDERSON Serenata, Syncopated Clock, Penny Whistle Song, Typewriter, Sarabande, Trumpeter’s Lullaby, Fiddle Faddle, Forgotten Dreams, Blue Tango, Jazz Legato, Jazz Pizzicato, Phantom Regiment, Bugler’s Holiday, Waltzing Cat, March of the Two Left Feet, Promenade, Plink Plank Plunk, Girl in Satin, Sandpaper Ballet, Belle of the Ball, Sleigh Ride Richard Hayman and his Orchestra NAXOS 8559125, 61:28 mins. This recent release in the Naxos ‘American Classics’ series is a reissue of a Naxos International CD from 1989 (8.990011) plus one extra track – Sleigh Ride. Around this time Richard Hayman was involved in a mammoth recording project in Czechoslovakia (as it was then) resulting in 20 or more collections of easy listening music. Considering their budget price, they were good value, but whether or not you wish to add this Leroy Anderson CD to your collection will probably depend upon two factors: the state of your finances, and if the music of this great American composer is new to you. Readers of this magazine who admire Anderson are likely to have already bought the CDs of his own performances of these (and other) works, and to be perfectly frank they are preferable. Under the composer’s baton these works truly sparkle; Hayman’s East European musicians sound as though they are going through the motions for the money, not because they genuinely love the music. But for only £5 you can hardly quibble. David Ades

BAX Violin Concerto [Eda Kersey & BBCSO, conducted by Sir Adrian Boult – BBC recording, previously unpublished, from 1944]/Symphony No.3 [Hallé Orch., conducted by Sir John Barbirolli – EMI recording, first published 1944]. Dutton Epoch CDLX7111, 72:31 mins. For glorious, sumptuously recorded romantic sound, there are few things in British symphonic music to rival the orchestral works of Sir Arnold Bax [1883-1953], whatever one’s views regarding their general construction. The wonderful Chandos series every time, I would suggest, for sheer sonic splendour; but this big-hearted music-making from an earlier generation still has lots to say to us and will give much pleasure to enthusiasts for contemporary performances, here further enhanced by the vibrancy and integrity of Michael Dutton’s superb transfers. John E. GovierThis CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £10 (US $20).

KURT REHFELD ORCHESTRA ‘In the Palace Garden’ Enjoy Yourself, Violets of Love, In the Palace Garden, Gladiolas, Espirito, At First Sight, Dreaming the Hours Away, Swedish Party, Merci, Fiesta dei Fiori, Verena, Fortune’s Favourites, My Love For You Alone, Mazurka, Thoughts of You, Today’s Offer, Mannequin, Dinner Date, Ma Cousine a Paris, Colorado Melody (Germany) Bliss Records BRA 10010, total time 60:12 mins. Many readers will remember the previous CDs from this German publisher containing many melodic titles – most of them originally heard throughout Germany and played by the various regional radio stations that used to exist in musically happier times. Eighteen of the 20 titles here feature the composing talents of Werner Tautz, one of the giants of German Light Music. Each is presented in new arrangements by Kurt Rehfeld, and performed by his charming orchestra of around 20 players – strings, woodwind, rhythm and percussion. Good taste is the keynote, providing one hour of pleasant melodies that are instantly appealing. David Ades This CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £13 (US $26).

"KISS OF FIRE" Galavant, The Boulevardier, Serenade Of A Clown, The Violin Is A Lady [Frederic Curzon]; A Georgian Miniature, Gaiety Galop, Pastorella, Poldini, Poupée Valsante [Ernest Tomlinson]; My Beautiful Lady [Ivan Caryll]; Moonbeams [Victor Herbert]; Kiss Of Fire [Lester Allen/Robert Hill]; Aguero [Jose Franco]; Topsy, Tosti, Mattinata, Denza, Funiculi Funicula [Vincenzo Billi]; Thé Dansant [Percy Fletcher].Rhapsody Quintet (Canada) RHAP CD 003. The Rhapsody Quintet is a group based in Nova Scotia, comprising violin, cello, contrabass, piano and clarinet, which seeks to re-create the sound of the small light music ensemble of yesteryear. On the evidence of this CD [their third, apparently] it does this to perfection, with gloriously rounded, lyrical and stylish playing. I like the varied, well balanced programme, too: Latin American movements, a gypsy number [Topsy], arrangements from musical comedies of circa 1900, two popular Italian songs [by composers who settled in London], the delicious Poupée Valsante, and toothsome morsels from three British light music giants, Percy Fletcher, Ernest Tomlinson and Frederic Curzon. In the latter two cases these recordings neatly complement the full orchestra Marco Polo CDs. I particularly enjoyed Tomlinson’s foot-tapping Gaiety Galop and melting Pastorella [from a radio musical], Fletcher’s lilting Thé Dansant and Curzon’s The Violin Is A Lady, written for Jean Pougnet. Very highly recommended; a honey of a disc. Philip L Scowcroft This CD is available from Walt Music, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada [e-mail: ].Copies can also be obtained to special order from the RFS Record Service.

Orchestra of Portsmouth Division Royal Marines: "Concert Classics Volume 2"The Fleet’s In, When Day Is Done, The Sailor With The Navy Blue Eyes, Keep On Smiling, Hands Across The Sea, The Dancing Years – Overture, etc… 24 tracks, total timing 76:37 mins. Eastney Collection RMHSEC004. Nostalgists shall thoroughly enjoy this varied selection of Second World War ORBS broadcast excerpts from three recorded programmes, all introduced by Kim Peacock. The first features three songs each from Anne Shelton & Frances Day, one from Jewel & Warriss, the monologue "Frank and his Tank" from Jack Warner. The second programme features four songs from Ivor Novello's "The Dancing Years" sung by Muriel Barron & Roma Beaumont. Finally, apart from two of Stanford's "Songs of the Sea", by Frederick Harvey & Choir, the rest of this programme features the orchestral items; Empire Medley (Somers),Ragamuffin (Rixner), serenade – Enchantment (Haydn Wood), Quivery Quavers(Lloyd), In a Chinese Temple Garden, Seafaring Medley, & A Life on the OceanWave. There is tremendous clarity throughout these vintage recordings, thanks to the expertise of the original sound transfers made by RFS member Philip Farlow. John Billingsley This CD is available from Eastney Collection, 60 Mayford Road, London, SW12 8SN, England – price £10 (UK) or £11.50 (overseas).

FRANZ LEHÁR CONDUCTS LEHÁR Gold & Silver, and orchestral excerpts from The Count Of Luxembourg, Eva, Gypsy Love, Land Of Smiles, The Merry Widow, Women of Vienna. Vienna Philharmonic & Zurich Tonhalle Orchestras [recorded May1940/June 1947]Dutton Super Budget CDBP9721, 66:45 mins. ‘FFRR’ [Full Frequency-Range Recording] came about as part of British Decca’s war effort 60 years ago. Later turning their technology to peaceful uses they were just in time to capture all except one of these authentic performances, directed by the veteran Hungarian King of Operetta himself. Franz Lehár died in 1948 when harmonies, melodic patterns and rhythms were fast emerging in light music, which must, to many listeners, have made these pieces sound either extremely nostalgic or just old-fashioned. Today we’re remarkably fortunate in that, given the choice, we can enjoy 20th century light music "in the round" so to speak – no small thanks to genuinely historical and valuable reissues such as this. John E. Govier This CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £6 (US $12).

LES ANNEES "ZONOPHONE" … QUEL "REGAL"! Nights of Gladness, Moszkovski Dances, Vienna City of my Dreams, King Chanticleer, Over the Waves, My Lady Dainty, Narcissus, Valse Septembre, Swabian Peasant Waltz, Parade of the Wooden Soldiers, My Hero, etc… 24 tracks International Concert Orchestra, The Blue Hungarian Band, London Novelty Orchestra, Commodore Grand Orchestra conducted by Joseph Muscant, etc. (France) ILD 642205, 70:35 mins. The CD booklet notes (in French) describe this CD as a ‘British Mystery’, because many of the tracks are by ensembles whose names give no real clue to their true identities. These 78s were recorded between 1927 and 1939, and there are some real treasures among them. They come from the British Zonophone and Regal labels, which during the 1930s merged to become Regal Zonophone (now part of EMI). This is the 10th collection for ILD compiled by Pierre-Marcel Ondher, to whom collectors whose tastes embrace this style of music owe a great debt of gratitude for making this fascinating era of recording available once again. The sound quality is very good, and readers who have enjoyed previous CDs in this series should not hesitate to acquire this one as well. An excellent CD, in all respects. David Ades This CD is available to special order from the RFS Record Service – price £16 (US $32).

THE FIVE SMITH BROTHERS By the Old Willow Tree; The Cobbler (Yodelling Song); I’m Afraid To Open Your Letter; Put Your Shoes On Lucy; Keep Your Feet Still Geordie Hinny; The Lambton Worm; Geordie Had the Bairn; When You and I Were Young Maggie; Blaydon Races; Cushie Butterfield; On Ikla’ Moor Baht’at; O My Jock Mackay; After the Wedding at Donegal Bay; Irish Medley (a. Patsy Fagan; b. As Irish as Dublin Town; c) Galway Bay); In The Cool, Cool, Cool of the Evening; A Gordon For Me; I’ll Take You Home Again Kathleen; Star O’ Robbie Burns; Hannigan’s Hooley; So Many Times Have I Cried For You; A Guid New Year. Evergreen Melodies C80 (CD) EVR80 (Cassette). "Mr. and Mrs. Smith’s Five Little Boys" all grew up on Tyneside and were an integral part of British popular musical either side of the last war. Sounding like a Geordie version of the Mills Brothers they were at their peak between 1945-1955, when most of these recordings were made and which are available here for the first time on CD. The family originally numbered six boys and two girls of whom Jack became a minister in Australia. Harold, Martin, Stan and Roy then formed the Four Smith Brothers and made their first record on Cup Final Day, 1932 (also included here), after which Stan and Martin went off to watch their beloved Newcastle United beat Arsenal 2-1 at Wembley. Harold and Roy had no tickets so had to go to the cinema instead! When Martin died young in the mid-Thirties, Alf abandoned his promising football career to bring the group back up to strength. During the war Ronnie Culbertson was persuaded to become "Ronnie Smith" thus making up the post-war Five Smith Brothers famous for their introductory chime "Hello, hello, hello, hello, hello-ho". They appeared at two Royal Variety Performances and were regular radio broadcasters on "Variety Bandbox" and "Up the Pole". CD price £8.50, cassette £6.50, available only by mail order direct from This England, PO Box 52, Cheltenham, GL50 1YQ, England - Tel. 01242 515156. Edmund Whitehouse

VIVIAN ELLIS - SONGS FROM THE SHOWS SS7 And So To Bed (Jack Jackson); Blue Butterfly; Dancing with a Ghost (Frances Day); Dreams That Don’t Grow Old (Al Bowlly & Ray Noble); Every Little Moment (Ray Starita); Faint Harmony (Les Allen & Henry Hall); I Was Never Kissed Before (Georges Guétary & Lizbeth Webb); I’m On a See-Saw (John Mills and Louise Brown); Kiss Me Dear (Denny Dennis & Roy Fox); Lady Spiv (Greta Gynt); Ma Belle Marguerite (Georges Guétary); Maybelle (Lew Stone);Other People’s Babies (Norah Howard); Put That Down in Writing; She’s My Lovely(Jack Cooper & Ronnie Munro); Spread a Little Happiness (Carroll Gibbons); Sweep(Jack Hulbert); This Is My Lovely Day (Georges Guétary & Lizbeth Webb); I’d Do the Most Extraordinary Things; Why Did You Call Me Lily? (Dora Bryan); Alpine Pastures(signature tune to "My Word"). This latest release from This England’s series on London musicals, features the most prolific composer of them all. Vivian Ellis was prominent in almost 70 West End shows and many of his songs have become standards, indeed Sting’s version of "Spread a Little Happiness" reached the pop charts almost 60 years after it was composed. This excellent selection ranges from 1928-1954 and includes all the old favourites, especially those from Bless the Bride. Several are hot tempo numbers and none better than Jack Hulbert¹s version of "Sweep". The CD costs £8.50 including postage with a shorter cassette version at £6.50, both available only from ‘This England’ (for full details see previous review) Edmund Whitehouse

INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE SEA IIInternational Festival of the Sea Theme, Hymn to the Sea [McDermott]; Sea Medley [arr. Long]; Prelude ‘49th Parallel’ [Vaughan Williams]; Three Jolly Sailormen [Siebert]; The Shadow of Your Smile [Bacharach]; Victory at Sea [Rodgers]; H.M. Jollies [Alford]; Sailing [Sutherland]; Un-Canny Drum & Band Feature [Peers/Savage]; Where Corals Lie [Elgar]; The Mighty Sea from ‘The Battle of the Atlantic Suite’ [Roylance/Galvin]; Fanfare for a Festival [Arnold]; Evening Prelude & Sunset, Seafarers! [arr. McDermott]; The Jolly Roger [Hancock]; Heart of Oak [Boyce]; A Life on the Ocean Wave [Russell arr. McDermott].Band of H.M. Royal Marines [Plymouth] directed by Lieutenant Colonel R.A. Waterer, OBE, MMus, FLCM, LRAM, RM Chevron CHV CD11, 72:45 mins. This is one of the most outstanding military band CDs to come my way for a long time. One is struck immediately by the superb technical quality of the recording managed commendably and very professionally entirely in-house by the Royal Marines. It would be interesting to know exactly where the recording was made. With generous playing time, this is an imaginative and excitingly planned compilation of music associated with last year’s International Festival of the Sea, held in Portsmouth over the August Bank Holiday weekend. The playing is of a uniform excellent standard and reflects great credit on all those who took part. W.O. Michael McDermott, who was appointed staff arranger for the Royal Marines in 1996, has made a sizeable contribution towards the disc’s success, including his composition of the Sea Theme for the Festival itself, a suitably soaring and sonorous melody; Seafarers!, an impressive medley of nautical tunes; and an interesting arrangement of A Life on the Ocean Wave associated, I believe, with the Royal Marines since the 1890s. Other highlights include Vaughan Williams atmospheric Prelude for the 1941 film ‘49th Parallel’; a very recent march, The Jolly Roger, by Martyn Hancock in celebration of the Centenary of the HM Submarine Service; and Edrich Siebert’s classic Three Jolly Sailormen in which three bandsmen display their dazzling dexterity on their cornets! This brilliant and impressive disc will strongly appeal to anyone with a taste for the stirring sound of a military band, particularly playing music with a salty tang. For anyone who attended the Festival itself it is an indispensable musical memento of a great nautical event. Roger HyslopThis CD is available from: Mrs. Ann Day, The Blue Band Magazine, HQBS, Eastney Block, HMS Nelson, Queen Street, Portsmouth, Hants, PO1 3HH, England – telephone 023 9272 6173 : www.royalmarinesbands.co.uk

CB2All By Yourself in the Moonlight (Maurice Elwin), Good Little, Bad Little You (Eddie Collis), Hot Coffee (Billy Scott-Coomber), I’ve Gone and Lost My Little Yo-Yo (Fred Douglas), If I Had a Talking Picture of You (Billy Milton), Let’s Face the Music and Dance (Sam Browne and the Rhythm Sisters), In the Chapel in the Moonlight (Chick Henderson), Let’s Put Out the Lights and Go To Sleep (Anona Winn and Sam Browne), Moani’ Low (Betty Bolton), One, Two, Button Your Shoe (Les Allen), Pop Goes Your Heart (Alan Kane), We’ll All Go Riding On a Rainbow (Dan Donovan), Who Walks In When I Walk Out? (Annette Keith), You Are My Lucky Star (Jack Cooper), This Year’s Kisses(Mary Lee), Il Bacio (The Kiss) (Millicent Phillips), Broken Doll (Marjorie Stedeford, Say It (Ivor Moreton), Scatterbrain (Phyllis Robins), The Wind’s In the West (Peggy Dell with Jack Plant and the Cubs), Medley: a) Gertie the Girl with the Gong; b) Home James and Don’t Spare the Horses; c) No, No, a Thousand Times, No! (Elsie Carlisle).CB3 The Popular Pair (Eddie Grossbart), Some of These Days (Marjorie Stedeford with Mario "Harp" Lorenzi), Knightsbridge March (In Town Tonight) (Ray Noble and the New Mayfair Orchestra), Bless Her Little Heart (Massed Bands of Debroy Somers, Piccadilly Revels, Kit-Cat and London Radio, directed by Al Starita), Reach Out For a Rainbow(Sam Browne with Van Phillips), Happy and Contented (Sam Browne with Ambrose),Let’s Sing a Song (Debroy Somers), Signature Tunes of Famous Bands (Jay Wilbur introducing them), Snap Your Fingers (Sam Browne with Ambrose & chorus), The Younger Generation (Les Allen with the Savoy Hotel Orpheans), Ro Ro Rolling Along(Maurice Elwin with the Arcadians Dance Band), When the Morning Rolls Around (Les Allen with Syd Lipton), The Park Parade (Jack Cooper with Ivor Kirchin), Oriental Medley (Phil Green’s Ballyhooligans), You Are My Heart’s Delight (Norman Long introducing the Savoy Hotel Orpheans), Love Locked Out (Sam Browne with Ambrose),I Never Knew I Could Love Anybody (Gerry Fitzgerald with Phil Green’s Darktown Strutters), No Strings (Howard Godfrey), I Cover the Waterfront (Jack Wallace),Misty (Ken Mackintosh). These two highly unusual compilations feature a large number of rare recordings. On the one hand is the cardboard promotional record released by the Siemens electrical company advertising The Popular Pair (in reality two types of light bulb) while at the other end of the spectrum we have Howard Godfrey’s No Strings which was never released at all because one of the trumpeters allegedly played a wrong note. It is hard to believe now that people would buy a record of Norman Long introducing the Savoy Hotel Orpheans or Jay Wilbur’s cut-glass accent introducing his band playing other people’s signature tunes, but such was their appeal at the time that both proved very popular. Most of the other tracks have not previously been reissued on CD. Most are lively and "hot" numbers while just a few are more wistful. Among the artistes are 14-year-old Millicent Phillips, who was known as "Britain’s own Deanna Durbin", and "Little Mary Lee" both of whom are still going strong in the 21st century. The two CDs are highly collectable companion pieces released to coincide with "This England’s Second Book of British Dance Bands - the Singers and Smaller Bands" and are available separately @ £8.50 each, but only by mail order direct from This England, PO Box 52, Cheltenham, GL50 1YQ, Tel. 01242-515156. Edmund Whitehouse

TEST CARD MUSIC Volume 7 Swing Cocktail (G. Plathe), Lough Leane (Peter Hope), Mississippi Melody & Merry-Go-Round Waltz (Alan Perry), Morning Call (John Carmichael), Plain Sailing (Harvey Richards) plus 16 more. APOLLO SOUND APSCD223, 58:10 mins. Once again our friends at Apollo Sound have ‘raided’ the archives of Mozart Edition for another highly entertaining selection. There is just one exception – a tune called Kolibri composed (we are told) by Frank Valdor. I have it on a Polydor LP under the title Calypso in D, and Helmut Zacharias claims to be the composer. Not so, says one of my reference books! The title is actually Yellow Bird, and it is the work of Norman Luboff and Marilyn & Alan Bergman. Would any readers like to claim it also? Goodness knows how PRS sort out the royalties! For me the high spots of this CD include Peter Hope’s beautiful Lough Leane and the two cameos by Ernest Tomlinson, writing under his alter ego Alan Perry. It is good to have Morning Call available commercially at long last. Two new names to Apollo Sound are Neil Richardson with a catchy number called Bric-a-Brac, and Paul Lewis with Fake Three. Just a couple of minor complaints: it would have been nice to have all the composers’ first names in full, and whoever decided to design the booklet with white print superimposed on a pink background has far better eyesight than me! Apart from these friendly jibes, this is a great CD which production music fans should not hesitate to snap up. David Ades

FLIP YOUR DISC Sweet Horror, Susan Q-Pink Cloud, Charming Lady, Ann the Schoolgirl, Pampero, Flower Street, etc… 21 tracks. Apollo Sound APSCD218, total time 58:50. Here’s another great helping of funky sounds, mainly from the 1970s, featuring the bands of Reg Tilsley, Dave Lindup, John Fox, Lem Arcon, Franz Thon and the Polish Radio Orchestra. If you’ve enjoyed previous Apollo Sound CDs such as ‘Cut’and ‘Happy Hour’ you’ll be pleased to get this one as well. David AdesApollo Sound CDs are available direct from them (see advert on page 89, or from the RFS Record Service for £12.75 (US $25.50).

BERT FIRMAN and his Orchestra - Swing High, Swing Low ASV Living Era CD AJA 5407Jig Walk; Oo La; Charleston Charley; Valencia; Always; While the Sahara Sleeps; Spanish Shawl; Shepherd of the Hills; That Certain Feeling; Oh Monah; The Stampede; Short an’ Sweet; Does She Love Me?; I Can’t Give You Anything But Love; Sax Appeal; She Didn’t Say Yes; A New Love Is Old; Sugarfoot Stomp; My Pet; Rhapsody in Blue; My Little; Don¹t Play With Fire; The Sweetheart Waltz; Swing High, Swing Low. There were four musical Firman Brothers (Sammy, Sidney, John and Bert) of whom Bert lasted the longest, being the final original West End band leader to expire, aged 93 in 1999. Most of his music was "hot" and this first ever release of his splendid band (which also includes brother John with whom he worked very closely), reflects that fact. Apart from four tracks from the late Thirties, where Sam Costa is the vocalist, the disc is devoted to his Twenties recreation of the sound of Fletcher Henderson and the like. All good stuff which will appeal mightily to those who love this era. A rare capture indeed is the first re-release of the premier British recording of Rhapsody in Blue with a strictly incognito pianist called Carroll Gibbons, who was under contract elsewhere at the time and dare not reveal his identity! This alone is worth the purchase price of around £8 and ASV are to be congratulated on this latest excellent disc in a terrific series. Edmund Whitehouse All ASV CDs are available through the RFS Record Service.

BLUE DREAMS: The Vantaa Pops Orchestra conducted by Markku Johansson. Blue Dreams; La Tangorita; Light of Stars; Konnivesi Waltz; Satin Strings; Star Bridge March; Peace Love and Harmony; Trumpet Party; Valse Romantique; Summertime Serenade; Romance; Dancing at the Casino; Bolero of the Rising Sun; Playout Music. (Finland) Finlandia 3984-26130-2. Here is a CD of new light music compositions. The 70 strong Finlandia Symphony Orchestra masquerading as The Vantaa Pops Orchestra brings us 60 minutes of wonderful melodies. Markku Johansson, who has composed all the items on this CD, obviously knows what real light music is all about. Among the items provided. there is a bustling samba, Trumpet Party, a wistful Valse Romantiquewith its attractive piano figurations, and a delightful La Tangorita. Star Bridge Marchwith its stately middle section would have fit comfortably into the Queen' s Hall light orchestral repertoire. This is a well varied programme and those who enjoy the music of Melachrino, Percy Faith and Charles Williams will love this. As far as I am aware the CD is not distributed in the UK at present. However it can be obtained within a few days from internet suppliers such as the German based JPC who are also able to obtain other hard to find light and dance music CDs. They can be found at: www.jpc.deBrian Stringer Editor: our member Per-Erik Pettersson has kindly offered to supply this CD (and an earlier one in similar style "Jealousy") direct to RFS members. The price of each CD is £15 which includes p&p. You can write to Per-Erik at: Huovisenkatu 15 A 3, FIN-33580, Tampere, FINLAND, or e-mail:

EDNA SAVAGE ‘Evermore’ I’ll Be There, Evermore, Stars Shine In Your Eyes, A Star Is Born, Candlelight, In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning, Arrivederci Darling, Bella Notte, etc… [30 tracks] Vocalion CDLK4120, 77:59 mins. Edna Savage was one of a number of talented British girl singers who enjoyed modest success during the 1950s. Almost all of her recording career is featured in this collection, including some duets with Michael Holliday. Sadly EMI delayed granting a license for this material two years ago when this CD was first planned, and Edna Savage died in hospital on 31 December 2000 aged only 64. She had a pleasant voice and it is good to have this souvenir, although I wish that the backing orchestras had been credited. David Ades

TED HEATH AND HIS MUSIC / EDMUNDO ROS AND HIS ORCHESTRA "Heath vs. Ros … Swing vs Latin" South America Take It Away, The Coffee Song, In The Still Of The Night, Come Rain Or Come Shine, Desafinado, etc… [22 tracks] Vocalion CDLK4123, 62:10 mins. This 2-LP collection features two classic Decca Phase 4 Stereo albums where the sound engineers fully exploited the left/right possibilities of their new toy. With the Heath orchestra on one side of your living room, and the Ros ensemble on the other side, the battle lines are drawn! Of course it’s all good fun, and the first LP must have sold well because there was a second – "Round 2" – which is the other LP included on this CD. Dare I say it, but if the gimmicks get a bit tiresome you can always press your mono button! David Ades

JOAN REGAN ‘Just Joan’ and ‘The Girl Next Door’ It Could Happen To You, When I Grow Too Old To Dream, I Know Why, That Old Feeling, Ricochet, I’ll Travel With You, etc… [24 tracks] Vocalion CDLK4132, 69:10 mins. This 2-LP collection comes as a pleasant surprise, offering a 10" LP of her hit singles (plus some bonus tracks) and a fine 12" album which she was probably given as a ‘thank-you’ for her chart successes. Joan Regan was one of Decca’s top girl singers in the 1950s, and even if some of the blatantly commercial singles have not stood the test of time, her album "Just Joan" reveals her to be a very accomplished ballad singer. Sadly for Joan (and so many of her contemporaries) she came to her peak at the same time as rock ‘n’ roll overwhelmed the pop world, and the rest … as they say … is history. If you remember Joan from her records and television shows you’ll be delighted with this new CD. David Ades

DAVID HUGHES ‘Here In My Heart’ With These Hands, A Beggar in Love, Only Fools, The Man in the Black Sombrero, Never, Only You Will Ever Know, Be Anything, At Last At Last, Kiss of Fire, Begin the Beguine, etc 24 tracks. Vocalion CDLK4134, 72:00 mins. British readers will probably still remember David Hughes, a good-looking singer who was popular on radio and television of the 1950s. This collection of EMI recordings provides a pleasant souvenir of his talent, and also serves to remind us that record companies at that time didn’t hesitate to support their artists with large backing orchestras tastefully arranged – what a pity that they aren’t credited in the notes. In later years David pursued an operatic career, but this was cut short when recurring heart problems caused his death at the early age of 44 in 1972. David Ades

JACK HYLTON AND HIS ORCHESTRA 1927 to 1931 Pardon the Glove, Buffalo Rhythm, Borneo, Mississippi Melody, If You Want the Rainblow, When the Lilacs Bloom Again, Who Cares, etc… 24 tracks. Horner’s Corner 101, total timing 73:43. When real enthusiasts have the opportunity to release CDs of their own particular favourites, the result is often very satisfying. RFS member Ian Horner has wide musical tastes, but Jack Hylton retains a special place in his affections. The result is this privately produced CD which Ian has kindly agreed that he will supply to any fellow RFS members who share his passion for British Dance bands. Personally I have always enjoyed the early Hylton HMV 78s, and I thought that I knew most of them. But most of the items in Ian’s collection are completely new to me, and he appears to have duplicated very few that are available elsewhere. The sound restoration is sympathetic, without spoiling the music in any way. So this is highly recommended to Hylton fans. David AdesThis CD is only available direct from Ian Horner, Tree Tops, Bowden Hill, Ashburton, Devon, TQ13 7EA, England – price £9 (UK) or £11 (overseas) postage and packing included. Special Note: at this point it is appropriate to mention that Ian has had this CD professionally produced at this own expense, and all the appropriate royalties have been paid. Today it is easy for people to produce CDs at home, but it is illegal to sell them unless the proper copyright and royalties regulations have been observed. If in any doubt, you should consult organisations such as PRS and MCPS, or similar in your own country. The RFS will not knowingly publicise any CDs which it suspects may not have been legally licensed – i.e. ‘pirate’ copies.

Four more British Dance Band compilations from Vocalion…

RAY NOBLE featuring AL BOWLLY ‘HMV Sessions 1930-1934 Volume 9’ It’s All Forgotten Now, All I Do is Dream of You, Dreamy Serenade, Remember Me, I Never Had a Chance, etc… 25 titles. Vocalion CDEA6063, 65:54 mins. This CD completes this major series of famous recordings which originally appeared in a World Records collection. The sound on the LPs was good, but that was in pre-CEDAR days, and the transfers by Peter Bown and Chris Ellis have been improved by the modern equipment in the hands of Mike Dutton.

OSCAR RABIN and his Romany Band with Harry Davis ‘An Apple for the Teacher’Masabi, I Let a Song go out of my Heart, A Man and his Dream, When I Dream of Home, Scatter-brain, Down Argentina Way, etc… 25 tracks. Vocalion CDEA6066, 65:21 mins. To my ears, this isn’t a ‘Romany’ band, merely a pleasant dance orchestra playing hits of the day. Vocalists include Garry Gowan, Beryl Davis and Ken Beaumont. According to the Brian Rust/Sandy Forbes ‘British Dance Bands on Record’ Angela Morley (as Wally Stott) is playing alto sax on some of these tracks, including Daddyand Two in Love.

HARRY LEADER ‘Boston Bounce’ Strike up the Band, Turning the Town Upside Down, My Sweetie Went Away, Trusting my Luck, etc… 25 tracks. Vocalion CDEA6070, 74:06 mins. In their day dance bands were as numerous as pop groups, and their popularity often depended upon their venue (usually a top ballroom), radio broadcasts, records and – to a lesser extent – their regular vocalists. But vocalists at that time were considered to be of little importance and for their records bands often used to hire whoever happened to be available. Thus you will find Al Bowlly, Sam Browne and Sam Costa with many bands on many labels. Here the Harry Leader band features Sam Costa, Chick Henderson, Alan Kane and several others. Perhaps Leader wasn’t among the very top bands, but he made numerous records and this selection is pleasant enough.

JAY WILBUR Vol. 2 I’ve Got my Love to Keep me Warm, Swing, You Were There, Some of these Days, Chatterbox, etc… 25 tracks. Vocalion CDEA6071, 65:37 mins. Jay Wilbur was better-known than Leader and probably ten times as prolific in the recording studios … no wonder he needs a second volume! Surprise, surprise … his vocalists include Sam Costa, Sam Browne, Jack Cooper and Anne Lenner, all of them familiar ‘friends’ to dance band collectors. David Ades All Vocalion CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.

New Production Music Recordings

CARLIN Archive Series: CAS006 Drama/ Horror/ Sci-Fi; CAS007 Dance Hall/ Swing/ Jazz/ Lounge; CAS008 Well Known Tunes/ Marches; CAS009 Western USA/ Panorama. 2-CD collections. Readers may like to refer back to page 76 of JIM 148 (September 2001) when the first 5 CDs in this series were reviewed. The latest ones follow the same formula, with more from the incredible output from Harry Bluestone and Emil Cadkin, although there are the occasional tracks featuring some of the other composers in the Carlin stable. In terms of music per minute these collections are great value for money, although I have to sound the usual caution that production music CDs are not conceived for extended listening at home. But for dipping into occasionally they can be great fun! David Ades These 2-CD collections from Carlin are only available through the RFS Record Service – price £12 [US $24] each.

FANTASY AND ADVENTURE New compositions by ADAM SAUNDERS The Adventure Begins, Dragons and Unicorns, The Dark Wizard’s Apprentice, Quest for the Ancient Scrolls, The Little Hero, Return to the Enchanted Kingdom, Unimaginable Evil, The Lovelorn Princess, Witches and Warlocks, Book of Spells, Dwarves and Goblins, A Noble Death, The Hermit Philosopher, Ancient Standing Stones, Arcan Sorceress. Chappell CHAP272, time 73:37. Right from the first notes, this is a most impressive collection of music from a talented young composer who happens to be a member of our Society. Therefore it is our great pleasure to be able to offer this CD to you. The titles give plenty of clues to the kind of music portrayed; it would not disgrace a major Hollywood epic. No expense has been spared in this lavish production, splendidly produced by Michael Whitewood. Nic Raine conducts the City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra and there is a choir on some tracks. Sound recording was in the experienced hands of John Timperley. Adam’s music ranges from dramatic to tender, and is always beautifully scored. He can be justly proud of this CD, and on the strength of this I shall be very surprised if his name does not appear on the credits of a major film in the next few years. David Ades Chappell CDs are only available through the RFS Record Service – price £9 (US $18) each.

ASPECTS OF NATURE Birth of Spring, Butterfly Sanctuary, Migration, First Flights, The Harvest, Snowfall, Arrival of Spring, Indian Summer, National Trust, Nature Cycle, Tolpuddle Ducks, Leprechauns (Robert Farnon), The Fledgling, Mother Goose, etc… 32 tracks. Bruton BRD49. Bruton have been trawling through the archives to ‘rescue’ an attractive selection of nature tracks, by some of their top writers including James Clarke, Brian Bennett, Duncan Lamont, John Hawkins, Keith Mansfield, Johnny Pearson, Chris Gunning, John Scott plus the one short Farnon piece mentioned above. Most of the compositions use a small ensemble (typically strings, harp and woodwind) which suits the kind of nature documentaries for which this collection is intended. The recordings date from 1977-1985. David Ades

SCREEN LEGENDS The Gold of San Jancinto, Roman Legions, Gunfighters and Lawmen, Biblical Choir, New Discovery, Silvery Moon, Beyond Dreams, etc… 16 full-length tracks, plus shorter versions and fanfares. Bruton BRJ55. The American composer John Cacavas has composed this impressive collection of themes which are best described as ‘sound-alikes’ – the kind of film music you think you have heard before, but which is sufficiently different to avoid accusations of plagiarism! A number of composers seem to be creating music of this kind, which must obviously be in demand from television and the film industry. John Cacavas has been writing enjoyable works for many years, and this large orchestra produces a rich, full sound. David AdesBruton CDs are only available through the RFS Record Service – price £9 (US$18) each.

ALBERT KETÈLBEY Historical Recordings 1924-1932: In a Monastery Garden; Chal Romano; The Phantom Melody; By the Blue Hawaiian Waters; Three Fanciful Sketches; In a Chinese Temple Garden; Will You Forgive?; In the Moonlight; The Clock and the Dresden Figures; Sanctuary of the Heart. NAXOS 8110174, 59:02 mins. Albert Ketèlbey’s abilities as conductor and pianist are sometimes overlooked, so this reissue of recordings made between 1924 and 1932 is particularly welcome. Only Monastery Garden and In the Moonlight, respectively conducted by Ray Noble (and Peter Dawson doing the ‘vocal’) and Richard Crean, do not feature AWK in either capacity. Particularly delightful is The Phantom Melody with him on piano partnering violinist Albert Sandler. It is also good to have Will You Forgive? as a sample of Ketèlbey’s song output (I discount the optional vocals for the popular orchestral pieces), and lesser known items like the sprightly Chal Romano andThree Fanciful Sketches, though the latter are less memorable than much Ketèlbey (and they should have been separately tracked). The transfers have been sympathetically done (even Will You Forgive?, the only acoustic here, comes up well) and all in all light music lovers will find this a fascinating release. Naxos Historical have explored "Coates by Coates" and "Ketèlbey by Ketèlbey" - who next? Philip L. Scowcroft This CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £5 [US $10].

"TRIBUTE TO MADAM" Complete Ballet Scores Checkmate (Arthur Bliss); The Prospect Before Us (William Boyce, arr. Constant Lambert); The Haunted Ballroom (Geoffrey Toye); The Rake’s Progress (Gavin Gordon) Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Barry Wordsworth ASV CDWLS255 (2 CDs) 151:34 mins. This act of homage to Dame Ninette de Valois - known by all affectionately as ‘Madam’, and who died in March at the grand age of 102 - deserves the warmest possible welcome. Apart from a number of double-bar repeats, and one or two ‘regular’ reprises inProspect, all four scores are offered complete. Bliss, Toye and Gordon were responsible for the scenarios, as well as the music in their works. Some years earlier, Toye had provided a new overture for "Ruddigore" - certain ideas in his Haunted Ballroom must appear very familiar to Gilbert & Sullivan addicts! Constant Lambert’s adaptation of Boyce is appropriate for a ballet with an 18th century setting. Lambert also once recorded a selection from The Rake’s Progress on two Columbia 78s - apparently long forgotten - but I can still remember seeing this delightful work on the small screen in the early 1960s. The booklet includes, among other things, an appreciation by David Bintley, CBE, several photographs, and "Madam - a Chronology". No-one who cares for British Music and the Arts should ignore this celebration of a great lady. John E. Govier Producer Philip Lane, has once again produced the goods for those who enjoy tuneful music. Here are four premiere recordings of complete ballet scores from which we have all heard familiar snatches but never the whole. The Haunted Ballroom (1934) is about all that is remembered of composer-conductor Geoffrey Toye, and similarly The Rake¹s Progress (1935) by actor-singer Gavin Gordon. Both, however, are excellent pieces and thoroughly enjoyable. Sir Arthur Bliss’s dark ballet, Checkmate, is brilliant music of a different kind with white and red chess pieces competing against each other in theirdancing before a somewhat sombre checkmate ending. When Constant Lambert borrowed the jolly 18th Century music of William Boyce for The Prospect Before Us, it was significantly first performed by Sadler¹s Wells less than three weeks after they escaped the Nazi invasion of Holland in 1940! This full-length double-CD is excellent value at £20 and a fine tribute to the memory of Dame Ninette de Valois (1898-2001), alias "Madam". Edmund Whitehouse

JOHNNY DOUGLAS In Concert The Conquest (a symphonic poem in 3 parts); The Blue Damsel-Fly; The Aftermath (a symphonic poem on 5 parts); The Weeping Willow; The Sequel Dulcima Symphony Orchestra conducted by Johnny Douglas Dulcima DLCD117, 50:58 mins. Johnny Douglas recently took a large orchestra into the Whitfield Street Studios, in London, and the result is this impressive CD. In the booklet notes, Johnny’s daughter Norma Camby explains that, at the end of 1999, her father fulfilled a lifetime’s ambition and began composing the first of several classical compositions. To be honest, I think that the world ‘classical’ could be misleading to some people; in my humble opinion this is superior light orchestral music, beautifully written and scored, and thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish. These are not light cameos, but full-bodied works, blessed with strong melodies and - most important - accessible. You can enjoy this music from the first hearing, although I have found that the more I play it, the more I get out of it. During his long and impressive career, Johnny has been involved in more than 100 LPs, many under the name ‘Living Strings’. He also wrote the charming music for that memorable film "The Railway Children". His previous albums on Dulcima have been popular with RFS members, and I am certain that everyone who appreciates real light music of a descriptive nature will find this new release very satisfying. For me, it has been one of the most pleasant surprises of 2001. David Ades This CD is available from the RFS Record Service, price £13 [US $26].

"FEEL THE SPIRIT" Feel The Spirit (spirituals arr. Rutter), Songs and Sonnets from Shakespeare (George Shearing), The Heavenly Aeroplane (Rutter), Lord of the Dance (arr. Rutter), Birthday Madrigals (Rutter), Skylark (Hoagy Carmichael & Johnny Mercer, arr. Rutter) Melanie Marshall(mezzo-soprano), The Cambridge Singers, Wayne Marshall (piano), Malcolm Creese (double bass), BBC Concert Orchestra conducted by John Rutter Collegium COLCD128, 74:59 mins. All RFS members who listened to Brian Kay’s final "Sunday Morning" on BBC Radio 3 in July will remember that his guest artists included George Shearing - Bach (and all that jazz) à la George being one of our treats; and by way of a bonus and a preview, Brian gave us It Was a Lover and his Lass from the Shearing-Shakespeare set in this nicely varied recital. Since admirers of these artists on both sides of the Atlantic are legion, all I need add is that performances are faultless, and the sound clean as a whistle. John E. GovierThis CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £12 (US $24). In North America, the address for Collegium Records is: PO Box 31366, Omaha, Nebraska, 68131, USA, or visit: www.collegiumusa.com

MANTOVANI 2 LPs on 1 CD: Latin Rendezvous Malaguena, Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps, Be Mine Tonight, Cielito Lindo, La Paloma, Siboney, A Garden in Granada, Perfidia, Andalucia, La Golondrina, Maria Elena, Espana. Mantovani Olé El Relicario, Adios, Tico-Tico, Ay-Ay-Ay, Piccolo Bolero, Mexican Hat Dance, Jealousy, Valencia, The Green Cockatoo, Spanish Gypsy Dance, Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps (shorter version than on ‘Latin Rendezvous’), Carmen Fantasy. Vocalion CDLK4113, 77:31 mins. There have been many reissues of Mantovani LPs on CD, and this one is a treat for everyone who enjoys Latin American music. The Decca sound quality is superb, and these arrangements (only Cecil Milner and Mantovani himself are credited) still sound fresh and inventive today. The CD booklet notes hint at the fact (already discovered by some of us) that LPs with the same title did not always contain exactly the same tracks when released in different countries. Perhaps this is whyPerhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps appears twice! David Ades

ENGLISH STRING MINIATURES Vol. 3 Persiflage (Carlo Martelli); Prelude, Romance (Gerald Finzi); Brook Green Suite (Gustav Holst); Duetto (William Blezard); Sinfonia Concertante (Michael Hurd); An 18th Century Scherzo (Haydn Wood); Concertino for String Orchestra (Bruce Montgomery) Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by David Lloyd-Jones Naxos 8555069, 60:30 mins. For less outlay than an evening at the local pub, here is Volume 3 of ‘English Light Music Miniatures’ - with more promised! A personal criticism must intrude: Brook Green is surely played too fast and too loud? Remember, it was written for a junior school orchestra, and slickness was never a part of Holst’s make-up anyway. However, make no mistake: this is a valuable issue. Where else (and at any price) can you hear the works by Michael Hurd, Haydn Wood and Bruce Montgomery, all instantly enjoyable for at least this listener. And should the two pieces by Gerald Finzi lead others to his ecstatic "Dies Natalis", his pastoral Clarinet Concerto, his lovely "In Terra Pax", and his profoundly moving Cello Concerto, then this fine disc will have achieved something even more splendid. John E. GovierThis CD, and the two previous volumes in this series, are available from the RFS Record Service for £5 each (US $10).

RONALD BINGE and his Romantic Strings 2 LPs on 1 CD: If You Were the Only Girl in the World Autumn Leaves, Cherokee, If You Were the Only Girl in the World, Elizabethan Serenade, Claire de Lune, *A Flash of Strings, *Sailing By, Stella by Starlight, Twelfth of Never, Song of Czechoslovakia, Un Minuto Contigo, La Vie En Rose. Summer Rain Bridge Over Troubled Water, Petite Fleur, *I Remember, Summer Rain, El Condor Paso, *Down by the River, Theme from Love Story, La Mer, Love is All, Lara’s Theme, Moon River, *If I Were King. Vocalion CDLK4116, 79:29 mins. These two Rediffusion LPs were popular in the 1970s, although they probably had a limited release. They were both recorded at the smallish Chappell Studios in New Bond Street (where the tracks on Robert Farnon’s CD ‘Out of my Dreams’ were also recorded), but recording engineer John Timperley managed to create a lush, expansive feel. Ronald Binge has occasionally created hints of the ‘cascading strings’ effect he devised for Mantovani, but these are simply fine examples of high quality, orchestral music, and it is good to have them available once again. Ronnie’s own compositions are identified with an *asterisk. David Ades

MORTON GOULD AND HIS ORCHESTRA ‘Memories / Showcase’ My Blue Heaven, Nola, Dardanella, Poor Butterfly, Sheikh of Araby, Whispering, Nobody’s Sweetheart, I’ll See You in my Dreams, Stumbling, Moonlight on the Ganges, I Love You, Charleston, Begin the Beguine, Birth of the Blues, Georgia on my Mind, Masquerade, New China March, Limehouse Blues, Two Guitars, Blues in the Night, Peanut Vendor, Katsumi Love Theme, Cafe Rio. (Australia) Frank Bristow EXCD28, 73:10 mins. British record companies’ shameful neglect of Morton Gould is really shown up by our friends Frank Bristow and Ian Dodds out there in Australia, for between them they have issued half a dozen CDs of this great arranger-composer-conductor and his splendid concert orchestra (and, just occasionally, the Robin Hood Dell Orchestra of Philadelphia). The late 1950s were the peak time for Gould with a dozen or so RCA albums succeeding the half dozen Columbia LPs which, as far as I have been able to trace, were never issued in the UK. Two which almost certainly weren’t were "Memories" and "Morton Gould Showcase" which Frank has included, along with both sides of an RCA single of Gould’s own Cafe Rio and Franz Waxman’s Katsumi Love Theme. JIM readers will know Morton Gould’s work all too well (despite having been deprived of so much of it through record company policy - or lack of it!) whether exemplified in his imaginative treatments of the first twelve "Memories", titles from the 1920s or in the neo-symphonic arrangements of the nine "Showcase" tracks from the later decades of the 20th century. So this CD with its extended playing time can be safely recommended without reservations. Arthur Jackson Frank Bristow’s CDs are available from him at: 2 Cross Street, Brighton, Victoria, 3186, AUSTRALIA.

ARTHUR SULLIVAN: "The Golden Legend" featuring The London Chorus and the New London Orchestra conducted by Ronald Corp, with Janice Watson soprano, Jean Rigby mezzo soprano, Mark Wilde tenor, Jeffrey Black baritone and Jonathan Brown tenor. Hyperion CDA67280, 2 CDs (second disc free), 94:47 mins. During the late Victorian era, The Golden Legendwas second only to Handel’s Messiah in popularity, and it is regarded by Sullivan experts as his finest concert work. Never before recorded in its entirety, Hyperion and Ronald Corp, with support from the Sir Arthur Sullivan Society and The D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust have resurrected this masterpiece. During the summer of 1886 following the huge success of The Mikado, Sullivan hid himself away in a cottage in Yorktown and composed a secular cantata that his colleague Gilbert was to recognise as "the biggest thing you’ve done". Scenes following the premiere at the Leeds Festival on 15 October transcended any known before, with the audience on its feet waving programmes and hats, climbing on chairs and hurling flowers. The choir had formed an opinion of its own of the work at rehearsal, and had accumulated bouquets under their chairs to launch at the composer. Even after just one hearing, I can understand why this work received such a great ovation after its first performance. This recording is truly magical, both in terms of performance and sound. Anyone who loves choral music will want to add this to their CD collection. David AdesThis CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £12 (US $24).

MARIANNE OLYVER AND HER GYPSY ORCHESTRA ‘Dark Eyes’ Czardas (Monti), Dark Eyes, Meditation from Thais, Circus Galop, Jewish Wedding, Play Gypsy, Moses Fantasia, Hejre Kati, Valse (Durand), Liebesleid (Kreisler), The Canary, Gypsy Carnival, Flight of the Bumble-bee Marianne Olyver, MO9596, 62:49 mins. In our June issue we reviewed the latest CD ‘Serenade’ by Marianne Olyver, and in response to several requests we are pleased to give you details of an earlier release. Marianne is a former leader of the National Youth Orchestra, and she studied violin with the great Alfredo Campoli for a year. In a glowing review, a Daily Telegraph critic acknowledged that some people might carp that there are more ‘authentic’ gypsy ensembles around, but the tradition that Marianne Olyver is honouring is actually a valid and complex one. The so-called Hungarian gypsy orchestras that flourished at the beginning of the last century often involved conservatoire-trained musicians playing specially commissioned compositions and arrangements. If you’ve already enjoyed ‘Serenade’, you’re sure to want this one was well. David AdesThis CD, and the other release ‘Serenade’, are available from the RFS Record Service for £11 each (US $ 22).

GEORGE ANTHEIL: American Classics Ballet Mecanique; Serenade for String Orchestra; Symphony for Five Instruments; Concert for Chamber Orchestra Philadelphia Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra / Daniel Spalding NAXOS 8559060, 59:05 mins. Warning: the opening of this CD may shock you! One critic apparently described Ballet Mecanique as ‘the very acme of demented modernism’! It is certainly different, and remains the one work for which this neglected American composer is vaguely remembered. Thankfully(?) the remaining works are more straightforward, although the Symphony for Five Instruments has some weird moments. Definitely not light music, but we mention it for the benefit of those brave readers who might wish to expand their musical horizons. No doubt it will be praised to the heavens in certain classical magazines! David Ades

1950 JAMBOREE! Memoir compilation of 78s issued in 1950, including tracks by Joe ‘Fingers’ Carr, Nellie Lutcher, Nat ‘King’ Cole, Eve Young, Jo Stafford, Rose Murphy, Danny Kaye, Teresa Brewer, Perez Prado, Bob Hope, Bill Snyder, Steve Conway and many more; 25 tracks. Memoir CDMOIR 560, 73:04 mins. This isn’t exactly Light Music, but one of our members said that we ought to mention it in JIM, so we’re happy to oblige! On any visit to record shops these days, you will find dozens of compilations on the shelves. They do offer a marvellous opportunity to hear again those precious 78s which many people are no longer able to play at home. It’s really a question of looking closely at the contents, then checking which company has produced the record and who is responsible for the sound restoration. The first point is obviously a matter of choice, but in this case the fact that Memoir have compiled the CD, and Ted Kendall has handled the remastering, means that you are getting a quality product. The comprehensive booklet notes are the work of Nigel Hunter, who always knows what he is writing about. No more comments are needed! David Ades

EDMUNDO ROS and his Orchestra 2 LPs on 1 CD: Strings Latino Cumana, Felicidade, Mas Que Nada, A Man and a Woman, Green Eyes, Malaguena, Granada, La Cumparsita, La Macarena, Thank U Very Much, Delicado, Rumba Rhapsody. Latin Hits I Missed Carnival, Ole Mambo, Spanish Flea, The Peanut Vendor, Cuban Love Song, Tico-Tico, Pablo the Dreamer, Whipped Cream, Solamente una Vez, In Happened in Monterey, Baia, La Bamba. Vocalion CDLK4114, 62:48 mins. Edmundo Ros still has a big following in many countries, and these two LPs were among the best he made. Personally I think it a pity that he sings on some tracks, and it is strange that he should have described Cuban Love Song as one of the hits he missed, when he used it as his signature tune for many years! As the title suggests, the first LP features a good string section, which is absent on the other. Decca’s Phase 4 sound from the 1960s could be gimmicky at times, and the separation of the instruments now sounds rather false and unnecessary. But it is not too excessive, so don’t let it put you off buying.David Ades

TED HEATH and his Music 2 LPs on 1 CD: All Time Top Twelve Begin the Beguine, April in Paris, ‘S Wonderful, Tenderly, Autumn Leaves, Somebody Loves Me, September Song, Stardust, Tea For Two, On the Sunny Side of the Street, I’ve Got the World on a String, My Blue Heaven. Shall We Dance? Dancing in the Dark, I Could Have Danced All Night, Dancing with my Shadow, The Love Dance, Shall We Dance, Let’s Face the Music and Dance, Dancing Time, Ten Cents a Dance, Dancing with Tears in my Eyes, Dance Ballerina Dance, All You Want to do is Dance, I Won’t Dance. Vocalion CDLK4115, 58:07 mins. Ted Heath fans are now enjoying something of a bonanza, with many of his fine albums now being reissued on CD. The band became a legend in its own lifetime, and the quality of the arrangements and the performances set a standard which still amazes. How great to have the booklet notes newly written by Johnny Keating. The only thing which has dated is the LP covers .... oh dear!! David Ades

SID PHILLIPS and his Great Jazz Band 2 LPs on 1 CD: Stomp Rags & Blues Sugar Foot Stomp, St. Louis Blues, Tiger Rag, etc. Clarinet Marmalade Dardanella, Ain’t Misbehavin’, Strut Miss Lizzie, etc. 24 tracks Vocalion CDLK4117, 67:04 mins. Like Ted Heath, Sid Phillips is also enjoying a mini-boom in popularity, with several recent CDs of his vintage tracks. These two Rediffusion LPs come from a later period, the 1970s, although it is believed that the recordings actually took place around 1962-1964, not long after Sid Phillips’ contract with EMI had expired. Long before that (the 1930s, in fact) he had been recognised as one of the brilliant arrangers providing such inventive scores for the Ambrose Orchestra. The clear tone of the Sid Phillips clarinet is one of the glorious sounds of the British recording industry, and this CD contains many fine examples. David Ades

ROSEMARY SQUIRES ‘Shine’ Let Yourself Go, You Turned The Tables On Me, I Used To Be Colour Blind, Shine, My Kid’s A Crooner, Green Dolphin Street, Sometimes A Day Goes By, Soon It’s Gonna Rain, All God’s Chillun Got Rhythm, Penthouse Serenade, Invitation, How Deep Is The Ocean, I Remember You, Blue, Honeysuckle Rose with The Brian Dee Trio Mainstem MCD0020, 63:30 mins. Rosemary describes this new CD as ‘gentle jazz’; it is also her first new jazz album for 36 years! After over 50 years in the business, Rosemary has now fulfilled an ambition to record numbers of her own choice with musicians of her own choice. Her selection in both instances is immaculate. Although some great favourites are present, it is great to hear some less hackneyed songs which many singers would have hesitated to bless with a jazz treatment. Rosemary says she is quietly proud to be labelled a ‘musicians’ singer, so it is hardly surprising that people like trombonist Don Lusher (on 2 tracks) need no persuasion to work with her. Other featured players (not on all tracks) include Brian Dee (piano), Alec Dankworth (bass), Clark Tracey (drums), Dave Green (bass), Matt Miles (bass), Alan Barnes (saxophone, clarinet), Ernie Cranenburgh (guitar), and Paul Eshelby (trumpet). One particularly nice touch happens in Penthouse Serenade: the first 16 bars actually come from a 1950s recording at the Star Club in Wardour Street, when Rosie was accompanied on piano by Alan Clare, then Brian Dee takes over. The CD booklet gives potted biographies and photos of the musicians - a generous gesture so typical of Rosemary. Her warm voice caresses each and every number with obvious affection, and the result is sheer delight for the listener. Even if you think you don’t like jazz, I suspect that this CD would captivate you! David Ades This CD is available for £11.95 from Rosemary Squires Enterprises, 2 The Meadows, Milford, Salisbury, SP1 2SS, England. State if you wish it to be signed or dedicated by Rosemary herself.

JACKIEGLEASONPRESENTSLONESOME ECHO.I'm Always Chasing Rainbows, Dancing On The Ceiling, Darling Je Vous Aime Beaucoup, Someday I'll Find You, I Wished On The Moon, Deep Purple, How Deep Is The Ocean?, 9 others plus 3 unreleased recordings. (USA) Collectors' Choice 72435-29752-2-8, 58:49. This is one of a handful of exotic albums in the Jackie Gleason catalogue at Capitol Records. Recorded around 1955, it is scored for mandolins, domra (large balalaika), guitar, cello and marimba. Gleason is reported to have told the mandolinists to dip their picks in a shot glass of bourbon that he had provided for each player! The resulting nostalgic timbre of this appealing group works well on "I'm Always Chasing Rainbows," "Deep Purple," and "How Deep Is The Ocean?" The booklet includes the original liner notes with Salvador Dali's explanation of his album art plus a photo of Jackie Gleason shaking hands with Dali. As a bonus, we are treated to three unreleased tracks in the familiar strings with trumpet obbligato format. Gleason greatly admired jazz musicians and insisted on having Bobby Hackett, one of the gentlest of players, on his sessions. Gleason's arrangers fashioned charts with Hackett's trumpet as the leading voice accompanied by strings. Without Hackett's golden-toned trumpet solos, Jackie Gleason's recordings would sound confusing with just the counter melodies. Happily the trumpet of Bobby Hackett is gloriously present, making a beautiful addition to an already wonderful listening experience. Richard Jessen

LOUIS LEVY and his Orchestras Taking a Stroll Around the Park; Everybody Sing - selection; A Bouquet of Flowers - medley; In the Sudan; Babylonian Nights; Wish Me Luck As You Wave Me Goodbye (Gracie Fields); ‘These Bands Make Music’ - 1944 BBC transcription programme; I Want The World To Know; My First Love; Kiss Me Kate - selection. Crystal Stream Audio IDCD68, 72:00 mins. Australian record producer Frank Bristow’s mammoth project to reissue the magnificent repertoire of Louis Levy has finally reached its conclusion with this eighth volume, now that the remaining recordings have fallen out of copyright. A few tracks are earlier numbers, located after a struggle, which certainly applies to the last item, the selection from Kiss Me Kate on Decca. Three tracks feature the Alfred Van Dam Gaumont British Orchestra, playing Louis Levy arrangements. We also have Levy accompanying The Street Singer, Arthur Tracy, on two titles, and that famous Gracie Fields film soundtrack recording from "Shipyard Sally" - Wish Me Luck As You Wave Me Goodbye - she was too ill to go into the record studios, and the company wanted to put the 78 out quickly. Perhaps the most interesting item from an historical viewpoint is the Louis Levy Orchestra featured in "These Bands Make Music", a BBC Transcription Service broadcast from 1944. Together these eight CDs represent a considerable achievement in sound restoration, coupled with a dogged determination to track down elusive items. Those of us who enjoy the rich, lush orchestral sounds of Louis Levy owe a great debt of gratitude to Frank Bristow and his colleague Ian Dodds. David AdesThis CD is available from Frank Bristow, 2 Cross Street, Brighton, Victoria, 3186, AUSTRALIA.

ERWIN HALLETZ Excerpts from numerous films including: Das Studenthotel von St. Pauli, Das Rasthaus der Grausamen Pupper, Das Liebeskarussel, etc. 30 tracks. (Germany) Bear Family Records BCD16488AR. In JIM 144 (September 2000) I reviewed two previous German film music collections from Bear Family, devoted to Martin Böttcher and Gert Wilden. These new CDs featuring Rolf Wilhelm and Erwin Halletz follow the same format, with varied excerpts supported by superb booklets which must delight German cinema enthusiasts. I have to admit that I am not really aware of the work of these composers, although the name Erwin Halletz is familiar from his superb LPs conducting the Monte Carlo Light Symphony Orchestra. The Bert Kaempfert release is a more conventional CD (no thick colourful booklet!), but the music is certainly very interesting. It seems that he was not particularly active in films, although one of his greatest hits Strangers In The Nightwas featured in ‘Wilkommen Mister B..’. Bear Family Records continue to bring out interesting new releases, and we feel sure that our German readers especially will be delighted with these three.David Ades

SIDNEY TORCH at the Wurlitzer Organ of the Gaumont State, Kilburn Hot Pipes! What Goes Up Must Come Down, Bei Mir Bist du Schoen, The Merry Widow - selection, Remember Me, Tunes of the Times, Don’t Worry ’Bout Me, The Gypsy Princess - selection, Song of India, Gullivers Travels - selection, etc. 22 tracks. Piping Hot PH2002, 71:38 mins. Sidney Torch is greatly admired by light music aficionados, and his pre-war recordings also have a similar fascination for cinema organ enthusiasts. Several LP and CD collections of his 78s have already appeared, and I have to admit that I cannot say whether any (or many) of the tracks on this new release are still available elsewhere. However I can confirm that the transfers have been very well done, with a full sound doing as much justice to the Wurlitzer as was possible through late-1930s microphones! Torch’s incredible ability certainly shines through; we know that he wasn’t involved in multi-tracking, but at times it almost sounds like it! Full marks also for the CD booklet, which is crammed with interesting information on Torch, and the organ itself. A nice compilation, obviously put together by producer Steve Ashley with enthusiasm for similar-minded folk. David AdesThis CD is available from: Piping Hot Recording Company, PO Box 46, Chesham, Bucks, HP5 1YU, England - UK price £11.00 (incl.. postage).

Naxos ‘Life and Works’ series: Ludwig van BEETHOVEN 4 CDs and booklet, written and narrated by Jeremy Siepmann with Bob Peck as Beethoven Naxos 8558024-27, 4 hours 56 mins. I have to confess my ignorance regarding Beethoven. Perhaps my music teacher at school tried to force me to listen to some of his less accessible works - whatever the reason, I have always preferred what might be termed the more tuneful or romantic classics, such as Delius, Debussy, Bax, Vaughan Williams, Holst and Ravel. However there has always been the niggling doubt at the back of my mind: if so many people proclaim Beethoven to be the world’s greatest composer, am I missing something? Therefore I didn’t hesitate when the opportunity arose to review this new Naxos release, which is one of a growing series devoted to the great composers. As you will by now have gathered, in no way can I speak with any authority on the subject, so I cannot comment upon how accurate Jeremy Siepmann is in his comments or opinions. What I can say, is that I found his approach everything that I hoped it would be, and I have no hesitation in recommending this collection to anyone like myself who wishes to make a similar voyage of discovery. The excellent booklet includes the spoken text, plus numerous other facts about Beethoven’s life and work. Naturally there are generous examples of Beethoven’s music, taken from the vast Naxos library of his work. Other composers in this series: Frederic Chopin 4 CDs Naxos 8558001-04; Franz Liszt 2 CDs Naxos 8558005-06. David Ades

TOM HARRELL "Paradise"Daybreak, Baroque steps, Night-time, Wind chant, Paradise spring, Morning prayer, Part I, Part 2, Wishing well, Sunrise. (USA) BMG Bluebird 09026-63738-2. There is a photo of Tom on the cover, eyes shut, totally blissed out! You can share this emotion hearing the music Tom has written for this beautiful CD. He sketched the arrangements on keyboard but the recording used a small string section, two violins, one viola, two cello, one harp plus sax, guitar, piano, acoustic bass/ drums and percussion and most important of all Tom's eloquent trumpet and flugelhorn. Each song is a masterpiece (sometimes almost melancholic!) but this is music to be cherished, real magic in the sounds, fresh and summery from start to finish. I often wish for larger string sections but on this outing the line up is just right. "Daybreak" sets the mood, a soft downward spiral of notes followed by a fast solo from Tom. From then on it just gets better and better! Some of the sweetest sounds you will hear this year. "Night-time" is eleven captivating minutes of song, the delicate traceries woven on "Paradise Spring" Those three tracks clinched it for me but there are six others I could go over the top writing about which would make this an article and not a review! Get it, it really is paradise. Paul Clatworthy

BOBFLORENCE: ANOTHERSIDE. Take the "A" Train, All the Things You Are, Chelsea Bridge, How Deep Is the Ocean?, You Must Believe in Spring, plus 6 medleys. (USA) MAMA CD MMF-1029, 53:48. Bob Florence has long been regarded as one of America's greatest living arrangers. With this CD, we now get to hear him in a different guise, that of pianist in a series of ballads. Technically, Florence plays with a calmingly smooth, even tone. However, there are touches of his dry humour, especially in playing "'A' Train" as a ballad. He also uses the chorus as the introduction to most of the songs, used to great effect in "Chelsea Bridge" and "How Deep Is the Ocean?" Where Florence really opens up is in the six medleys where we hear his genius in full flower. The most startlingly beautiful is "My Friend, John," made up of three songs by Johnny Mandel ("Suicide is Painless," "The Shining Sea," and "You Are There"). So highly inventive is Florence's creative abilities that he draws the listener in and keeps one there with wonderful impressionistic charm. It goes without saying that this CD by Bob Florence belongs in any buyer's collection with the highest of recommendations! Richard Jessen

BUGGE WESSELTOFT "It's snowing on my piano"Title track, In Dulce Jubilo, O Little town of Bethlehem, What child is this (Greensleeves), Stille Nacht, Into eternal silence, etc. (Germany - ACT Ambient 9260-2). When samplers are issued there is always at least one track which so sticks in your mind you track down the album it came from as soon as possible! The tune that worked for me was Bugge's "New conception in jazz" (Sonet 537 251-2). Completely hooked, I snapped up his next album "Moving" (Jazzland 013 534-2) which I never reviewed for JIM because I thought them far too esoteric for most of our readers. As you know my taste usually centre's around groups, in particular large bands which have so much scope in tonal sounds. In that respect this album was not what I expected but after a few playings this young talent from Norway using just solo piano insidiously wormed his way into my head. I know we have many piano fans in our ranks who will find this equally compelling. There is never a hint of beat but you do not miss it! Reflective piano playing of the highest order, some titles familiar others not, a Christmas album with a difference. Paul Clatworthy

ANDRE KOSTELANETZ ‘The Ultimate Collection’ Song of India, Waltz from ‘Die Fledermaus’, A Thousand and One Nights, Blue Danube, Vienna Life, Sweet Leilani, Tonight, Irma La Douce, The Rain in Spain, My Favourite Things, Happy Talk, Try to Remember, Unchained Melody, Mame, If I Were a Rich Man, Fools Rush In, The Shadow of Your Smile, The Nearness of You, Hello Dolly, Calcutta, Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head, Till There Was You, What Kind of Fool Am I, Loving You, In the Still of the Night, I Love Paris, Begin the Beguine, Love for Sale, etc... 60 tracks. 3-CD collection (Australia) Columbia 5024642000. Space doesn’t allow us to list all 60 tracks, however the titles above give a clear indication of the contents. But everything may not be as you’d expect; some of the titles are later versions of standards Kostelanetz also recorded in his early career - no doubt the compilers wanted to include stereo tracks whenever possible. Any collection which calls itself ‘Ultimate’ is asking for such a claim to be challenged, and it is not difficult to complain about favourites which are missing. When I started listening to the light classics on CD1 I started to get depressed, and such feelings reappeared when playing some of Kosty’s later recordings of pop songs on the other two CDs. Just when I was on the point of not going any further, something would turn up which made me almost forgive whoever was responsible for some of the things the maestro was made to do towards the end of his career. Personally I have discovered some real gems in this collection, and having played all three CDs several times I am finding more to enjoy each time. So it just goes to show that hasty first impressions may not always be valid! David Ades This 3-CD collection is available through the RFS Record Service for £15 (US $30).

NEW YORK VOICES"Sing sing sing"Sing, Sing, Sing, I can't believe you're in love with me, Smack Dab in the middle, Early Autumn, Bli Blip, Ain't Nobody here but us chickens, Save your love for me, Orange coloured sky, Hallelujah, I love her so, Cloudburst, Stardust, Don't be that way, In a mellow tone, I'll be seeing you (Concord CCD-4961-2) All these titles have been covered by famous groups of the past, The Hi Lo's, Singers Unlimited, The Four Freshmen, The Meltones ... to name a few. Backed by a Big Band arranged by Darmon Meader (one of the "voices"), Michael Abene and Rob Mounsey, all the songs come up fresh as paint (it swings just like in says on the sleeve!) Standout tracks "Early Autumn", "Orange coloured Sky" and "Save your love for me. A bout of nostalgia 2001 style impeccably performed. Paul Clatworthy

PATRICK WILLIAMS "Blonde" - TV soundtrack Concord Jazz/PEI PBD-7500-2, 56 mins. Not just a big-band studio album of mostly pop-tunes as his classic PhilRamone-engineered Verve albums of over 30 years ago, Grammy-award winner Patrick Williams superbly recreates the days of Miller, Basie and Krupa with a very modern 18-piece big band often backed by a 14-piece string section. Big band masters of that era Snooky Young, James Moody and Ray Brown join Plas Johnson, Kenny Burrell, Mundell Lowe, Bill Watrous and RFS's Michael Lang to ensure a swinging feel throughout, playing standards Chelsea Bridge, I Can't Give You Anything But Love and Three Little Words intertwined with newly-composed seamless material. We are fortunate to have magazine publisher PEI start its jazz series with this excellentall-new-arrangements recording of the best veteran American big-band jazz players.

Alan Watts

MATT MONRO: Walk Away.Walk Away, Georgia On My Mind, Softly As I Leave You, It's A Breeze, Who Can I Turn To plus 7 others. Invitation To The Movies. Alfie, Georgy Girl, Theme From "The Sand Pebbles," A Time For Love, Born Free plus 6 others. (USA) Collectables COL-CD-2274, 65:25. Every time Matt Monro opened his mouth to sing, he gave all of us a free lesson. And here is bountiful proof of that statement - "Walk Away" (1965) and "Invitation to the Movies" (1967). The former contains his sure fire hit "Walk Away" sung with great poignancy which never gets sickeningly maudlin. "It's A Breeze" is a gasser with Riddleisms all over the place as is "Going Places," both inspiring the jazzier sides of Monro. Hoagy Carmichael thought the world of Matt Monro and loved his 1963 recording of his songs. Here we sample a later exploration of Carmichael's lyrics in "Georgia..." as well as "I Get Along Without You Very Well." Both are magnificent aspects of the tonsorial art. "Softly As I Leave You" is another show stopper, sung with masculine grace and dignity. The movie album finds us hearing the "Sand Pebbles Theme" ("And We Were Lovers") warmly sung by Monro as are "Alfie" and "Born Free." Matt's ambition to record with Billy May results in sparkling renditions of "Georgy Girl" and "A Man And A Woman." Arrangers are Johnnie Spence, Sid Feller, Billy May and John Barry. The transfer to CD is flawlessly lifelike and serves as a monument to one of the world's greatest pop singers, one of many whose careers came to fruition during the 1960's. Richard Jessen

PHIL KELSALL ‘Seasons In The Sun’ Berliner Luft, Oh My Beloved Father, Londonderry Air, Side Saddle, Spanish Eyes, The Entertainer, Songs My Mother Taught Me, Midnite Blue, Poupee Valssante, etc.. Grasmere GRCD 110, 65:37 mins. This new CD finds Phil Kelsall in electronic mode playing the Technics SX-FA1 (surely the manufacturers could have found a more catchy name for an organ?!). Mr. K makes so many CDs, we can only assume that there is a strong demand among organ lovers. I am sure that this latest one won’t disappoint them. David Ades

EDDIEHEYWOOD: Canadian Sunset. Lies, Rendezvous For Two, Heywood's Beguine, All About You, Begin the Beguine, Canadian Sunset (2 versions) plus 10 others. (USA) Collectables COL CD-6290, 47:15. Eddie Heywood (born in Atlanta, Georgia on 4 December, 1915; died 2 January, 1989 in Miami Beach, Florida) became a superstar with his own composition "Canadian Sunset" in 1956. Yet his career was halted twice due to a mysterious paralysis in both hands (the first attack in 1947-50, the second in the late 1960's). In spite of this, his playing has a warmly fluid lyricism as evidenced by this current CD which pairs the complete version of the stereo LP of 1957 with 45 rpm releases from 1951 to 1956. Six tracks are arrangements for orchestra by Sid Ramin (Leonard Bernstein's friend and fellow classmate at Tanglewood) while the other six are with Heywood's quartet. The quartet tracks reveal a sharper style to Heywood's abilities. The results of both are highly enjoyable especially "Rendezvous for Two" and "Dearest Darling." There's also "Heywood's Beguine" and an alternate version of "Canadian Sunset" that makes an interesting contrast. The other tracks are from 45 rpm singles ( tracks 13 and 15, 16) with "Begin the Beguine" an unidentified cut from another LP. But we save the best for last, my theme song "Canadian Sunset" with Hugo Winterhalter's orchestra. This lively shuffle-rhythm number has been a firm favourite of mine for years. One question to all Canadians - is this what your sunsets are like? One way to find out is to buy this CD! Richard Jessen

Felix Mendelssohn and his Orchestra (featuring the Hawaiian Serenaders) Sweet Is The Word For You, Silvery Moon and Golden Sands, So Little Time, In the Mountains of the Moon, Home Town, The Girl in the Upstairs Flat, etc. 26 tracks CDEA6057, 75:20 mins.

Teddy Joyce The Lights are Low the Music is Sweet, I Never Slept a Wink Last Night, Way Back Home, Corcovado, What Are You Doing Out in the Rain, etc. 25 tracks CDEA6058, 75:42 mins.

Roberto Inglez and his Orchestra Come Closer To Me, Nocturne, Serenade, The Green Cockatoo, In the Still of the Night, Without You, Jamaican Rumba, Dancing in the Dark, Tico-Tico, Night after Night, I’m Always Chasing Rainbows, Brazil, Autumn Serenade etc. 25 tracks CDEA6062, 75:35 mins. Pseudonyms are common in show business; many performers like to forget the names they were given at birth, and others change them in a quest for authority or authenticity. Perhaps the piano-playing Scot, Bob Inglis, felt that no one would take him seriously when he performed Latin-American music, but a change to ‘Roberto Inglez’ worked miracles for him. There was never any doubt regarding his credentials; he spent six years with Edmundo Ros, and his rumba group was relief band to Carroll Gibbons at London’s Savoy Hotel. For his commercial recordings he made the wise decision to widen his appeal through an instrumental line-up that was possibly closer to light music than ‘genuine’ Latin-American. The result was that his gentle blend of rhythmic standards reached a wide audience, and today, fifty-five years later, it is not difficult to appreciate why his charming recordings were so well received. As Arthur Jackson says in his booklet notes, this was sophisticated music of its time. Make sure that you add a fresh touch of sophistication to your CD collection - there isn’t much of it about any more! David Ades

These two new CDs offer a fascinating selection of vintage mood music from the late 1940s. All the tracks come from Francis, Day & Hunter 78 rpm records, and they have been remastered at EMI Abbey Road. These CDs are only available from the RFS Record Service : price £9 (US $18) each.

Boosey Media: The Archive Collection Vol. 3 Costa Rican Carnival, Cannes Couture, Come Cuban (Edward White); Uncle Harry, Eight Man Bunce, Colonel Crud, Valse Parisienne (Trevor Duncan); Gnome at Home (Eric Winstone); The Bop Addict, In a Country Lane, The Mixed Up Kid (Paul Hamilton - alias Monia Liter); Slapstick Pete (Andrew Basil - alias Bassett Silver); Three Over Four (Edward Rubach); Faces in the Fog, The Game of Three (M.G. Frank); African Fun (Chris Barron)Cavendish CAV CD125. This third volume of Boosey & Hawkes archives has been a long time coming, but I have to say that it is a disappointment. Over the years I have frequently made the point that CDs issued by Production Music companies are simply a means of getting their products into the hands of users, namely the film, radio and television companies around the world. They arenot intended for leisure listening at home. However many of these releases by various London (and other) publishers have been well received by readers of this magazine, and we are very grateful to our friends in the business for allowing us to purchase copies from them. This latest CD from Boosey & Hawkes (who seem to have dropped the ‘Cavendish’ name in favour of ‘Boosey Media’) lasts under 30 minutes, and features mainly the kind of sounds which took over mood music in the later 1960s and 1970s. So don’t expect the sort of material which was featured on their first two volumes of archive recordings. Having said that, any CD which includes music by composers such as Edward White, Trevor Duncan and Monia Liter surely merits some attention. B&H still have a vast storehouse of orchestral riches from the 1940s and 1950s hidden somewhere in their vaults, and we can only hope that they will eventually be made available once again on CD. David Ades This CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £9 (US $18); the first two volumes of B&H Archives are also still available.

BRITISH LIGHT MUSIC DISCOVERIES - Volume 4 Partita (John Rutter); Suite Française (Sir Richard Rodney Bennett); March - The Padstow Lifeboat (Sir Malcolm Arnold); Fantasy on Dover Castle (David Fanshawe); Battersea Park Suite (William Blezard); Dance Diversions (Michael Hurd); A Miniature Symphony (Paul Lewis) Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland ASV CD WHL2131, total timing 70:41 minutes. [This disc is also available in Super Audio format, playable on conventional equipment, on ASV CDWHL9131 - price £18]. ASV inform us that their first three discs of British Light Music Discoveries have proved immensely popular, and this fourth release in an already acclaimed series shows just how rich a seam British Light Music is. This time seven composers are represented, some well-known but others now receiving well deserved attention. Sir Malcolm Arnold’s stirring The Padstow Lifeboat is newly presented in orchestral guise. John Rutter’s Partita, inspired by Sir William Walton’s piece, pulsates with the spirit of the dance, as does Michael Hurd’s 1972 Dance Diversions. Sir Richard Rodney Bennett uses a French folk-song as the basis for his delectable Suite Française, while David Fanshawe (of African Sanctus fame) stays the English side of the Channel for his highly atmospheric Fantasy on Dover Castle. William Blezard contributes a children’s suite for small orchestra, conjuring up ecstatic delights of the old Battersea funfair in south London. Finally we come to an old friend of many RFS members, Paul Lewis, composer of many television themes and works for production music libraries. He gives us a mighty symphony - lasting just four minutes! If this sounds like short measure, we can tell you that Paul’s music will be appearing on another CD soon, and you’ll receive full details via this magazine. All the performances here are world premieres, and we have no hesitation is recommending that this CD should be added to the collection of all readers who have enjoyed the previous three in this series.

David Ades

Previous CDs in this series are still available - price £10 [US $20] each:

British Light Music: PERCY WHITLOCK Concert Overture - The Feast of St. Benedict; Ballet Of The Wood Creatures; Wesses Suite; Suite - Music For Orchestra; Come Along Marnie; Susan The Doggie And Me; Holiday Suite; Balloon Ballet; March - Dignity And Impudence RTE Concert Orchestra conducted by Gavin Sutherland, with Malcolm Riley, organ Marco Polo 8225162, 71.48 minutes. Coming up through the English Cathedral tradition, Percy Whitlock (1903-1946, RCM trained) was later (1930s) appointed Municipal Organist in Bournemouth: a place with an enlightened attitude regarding British Music, thanks to Sir Dan Godfrey and like-minded people. Percy’s beloved instrument appears from time to time in this cheerful, civilised, outgoing programme, which calls for no space/time wasting analyses - excepting perhaps the final item where the Dignity is self-evident, and those who know their Elgar won’t fail to spot the Impudence!

John E. Govier

Percy Whitlock is remembered primarily as an organist; many organists, however, have written lightish music and Whitlock had light music opportunities as Organist of Bournemouth Pavilion. This well recorded and excellently played issue, sponsored by the Percy Whitlock Trust, explores his orchestral music (mostly written under the pseudonym Kenneth Lark) which is in the best traditions of British light music. Wessex Suite and Holiday Suite both begin with a waltz and end with a reasonably lighthearted march; the latter’s middle movement, Spade and Bucket Polka, quotes Cherry Ripe. Dignity and Impudence pokes fun at, yet pays homage to, Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance and the deliciously scored ballet pieces and song transcriptions, all composed for a charity matinee, have great charm. Music for Orchestra, put together from bits and pieces dating from throughout his (sadly, not long) career, features, appropriately, a prominent organ part. The CD should delight all light music devotees; one is only surprised that Whitlock’s work in this direction should have taken so long to be fully recognised.

ERIC COATES ‘British Light Music’ By The Sleepy Lagoon; Summer Days Suite - In a Country Lane, On the Edge of the Lake, At the Dance; Wood Nymphs; The Jester at the Wedding - March, Valse; Symphonic Rhapsody on ‘I Pitch my Lonely Caravan’; Symphonic Rhapsody on ‘I Heard You Singing’ and ‘Bird Songs at Eventide’; London Suite - Covent Garden, Westminster, Knightsbridge; Summer Afternoon; Cinderella; London Bridge. Eric Coates conducting various Symphony Orchestras Naxos 8110173, 59:53 mins. In 1994 and 1996 Conifer issued two 2-CD collections of music by Eric Coates, but both have now been deleted. Therefore it is good that some of these historic recordings should be in the catalogue again, even though Naxos are only offering us one-fifth of the amount previously available. The booklet cover announces that these are ‘Historical Recordings 1926 to 1940’, which is a period when Coates was well established as an important composer, following his earlier success as a writer of ballads. This new CD concentrates on Coates conducting his own works, and all tracks were previously available on Conifer, where Ted Kendall was responsible for the remastering. Seven years later sound restoration techniques have improved considerably, but I have to say that this new Naxos release sometimes compares unfavourably with Ted’s work for Conifer. The orchestral sound is often quite good, with a rich and warm full-bodied feel, but a little more effort should have been made to reduce the background noise. This is all the more noticeable because the sound engineer has followed the annoying Pearl habit of leaving a couple of seconds at the beginning of some tracks before the music actually commences. Maybe the CD was made before the final remastering had been completed? The very first number creates a bad impression with glitches right from the start; then the three 1926 recordings of the Summer Days Suite have the worst background noise of all (far less obtrusive on Conifer), making one fear for the rest of the CD. Happily things do improve, but it might have been better if Naxos had chosen, say, London Bridge to open the collection. But don’t let these minor criticisms put you off buying this CD, if you do not already have these important recordings in your collection. We hope that this will be a long-running series from Naxos (the second was advised as we went to press - see below) and perhaps later issues will pay a little more attention to unwanted surface noise. David Ades This CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £5 [US $10].

TED HEATH AND HIS MUSIC : Gershwin for Moderns The Man I Love, Love Walked In, Nice Work If You Can Get It, Love Is Here To Stay, Clap Your Hands, I Got Rhythm, But Not For Me, Someone To Watch Over You, That Certain Feeling, Embraceable You, Changing My Tune, Soon Rodgers for Moderns Have You Met Miss Jones, There’s a Small Hotel, It’s Easy to Remember, My heart Stood Still, Down By The River, Thou Swell, The Lady Is A Tramp, Where or When, This Can’t Be Love, I Married an Angel, Dancing On The Ceiling VOCALION CDLK4110, 61:40 mins.

NORRIE PARAMOR AND HIS ORCHESTRA: In London In Love The Nearness Of You, Stairway To The Stars, Stardust, Embraceable You, Stars Fell on Alabama, The Touch Of Your Lips, All The Things You Are, I’ll Get By, Deep Purple, Someone To Watch Over Me, Dearly Beloved, The Very Thought Of You Autumn Autumn In New York, Ev’ry Street’s A Boulevard In Old New York, November Song, Autumn Concerto, Love In A Tower, Autumn In London Town, Autumn Leaves, Manhattan, Lullaby Of Birdland, Broadway Melody, Penthouse Serenade, Harlem Nocturne (USA) Collectors’ Choice CCM-190-2. I have to admit that I avoided Norrie Paramor’s LPs when originally released because I found the occasional words by the soprano rather annoying. Having listened again, I’m afraid that my views haven’t changed. Few probably share my dislike of this feature, and Norrie has certainly created some really beautiful string sounds for these two albums. It would be a pity to pass them by. David Ades

ANDRE KOSTELANETZ : Music of Cole Porter Begin the Beguine, All Through The Night, I Concentrate On You, I Love You, Night And Day, In The Still Of The Night, I’ve Got You Under My Skin, Blow Gabriel Blow Music of Vincent Youmans Hallelujah, Time On My Hands, Tea For Two, Carioca, Without A Song, Great Day, More Than You Know, Orchids In The Moonlight, Sometimes I’m Happy, I Know That you Know, Through The Years, Drums In My Heart (USA) Collectables COL 6630.

THE VERY BEST OF HUGO WINTERHALTER Count Every Star, I Wanna Be Loved, Mr. Touchdown USA, Beyond The Blue Horizon, Blue December, A Kiss To Build A Dream On, Blue Tango, Somewhere Along The Way, Vanessa, Blue Violins, Music Box In Blue, The Velvet Glove, Latin Lady, The Little Shoemaker, The Magic Tango, Song Of The Barefoot Contessa, Land Of Dreams, The Little Musicians, Canadian Sunset, Swingin’ Sweethearts. Taragon (USA) TARCD 1080

THE POP SIDE OF LES BAXTER Zing Zing Zoom Zoom, The Roving Kind, Because Of You, Unless, Shrimp Boats, Blue Tango, Please Mr. Sun, I’m Yours, Kiss Of Fire, Auf Wiedersehen Sweetheart, Indian Summer, Suddenly, April in Portugal, Ruby, I Love Paris, Gigi, Tropicana, Elaine, Wake The Town And Tell The People, The High And The Mighty, Blue Mirage, Unchained Melody, Blue Star, I’ll Never Stop Loving You, The Poor People Of Paris. Collectors’ Choice Music (USA) CCM 161-2

TWILIGHT TIME - The Starry Night Orchestra - Arranged and Conducted by John Fox. YESTERMUSIC 619528 (2CD Set) 30 tracks of lush orchestral music from an almost bygone age. Anyone who used to enjoy listening on BBC Radio 2 to the strings of The Radio Orchestra playing the superb arrangements of John Fox back in the 70's and 80's will welcome this compilation of titles originally recorded for syndication to the American Easy Listening radio stations. John Fox who, unlike Radio 2, is still very much with us, tells me that the orchestra, led by George French, consists of 18 violins, 6 violas, 6 cellos, 2 flutes and oboe plus harp, piano and rhythm. Some tracks feature Bobby Harrison on flugel and the technically superb recordings were made at the famous CTS Studios, engineered by Dick Lewsey. Titles range from standards to hits of the 70's and include The Nearness Of You, East Of The Sun, You Go To My Head, A Certain Smile, Always On My Mind, Love Is A Many-Splendoured Thing, The Song Is You, The Summer Of '42, People, Cherish, Dear Heart, Stormy Weather and With A Song In My Heart plus many others. This is an excellent compilation and should be in the collection of every lover of lush arrangement for strings. At the time of writing it was being advertised by mail order company Music And Memories (02072 333000). Alan Bunting

KAREL KOMZAK : Waltzes, Marches and Polkas Razumnsky Symphony Orchestra Conducted by Christian Pollack MARCO POLO 8225175. Komzak (1850-1905), of Bohemian extraction, worked as a military bandmaster in Vienna but his waltzes and polkas have always been overshadowed by those of the Strauss family, only Buden Maidens being at all well known. This duly figures on this splendidly played and recorded CD, along with three other waltzes - Magic of May, Phantom and New Life, all expansive and gorgeously tuneful in an individual way; they are in no sense copies of Strauss. These mingle with four marches and sundry polkas and other miniatures, plus the lively overture to Komzak’s only operetta Edelweiss. There were in fact three generations of musical Karel Komzaks, and the first (1823-93) is represented here by an attractive polks francaise. The ordhestra is from Solvakia and, I repeat, plays well. All told this is a delight of a disc and one hopes Marco Polo’s enterprise is rewarded. Philip L. Scowcroft

DANCE BAND RARITIES: British Dance Band Fans who still have a soft spot for the likes of Jack Jackson, Jack Hylton, Roy Fox, Ray Noble, Carroll Gibbons, Billy Cotton, Jay Wilbur, Lew Stone, Geraldo, Harry Roy, Jack Payne and many more will need no further encouragement! With the emphasis on rare material, there should be few duplications with records already in your collection. Memoir CDMOIR 549, 71:44 mins.

THE RED SOMBRERO - More Light Music Favourites: BOSTON PROMENADE ORCHESTRA - Arkansaw Traveller, La Golondrina, Sleigh Ride, Serenata; ANDRE KOSTELANETZ - Adios, Song of India; CHARLES WILLIAMS - Rhythm on Rails (Williams), Sleepy Marionette (Williams), The Laughing Violin (Mortensen); ROBERT FARNON - How Beautiful Is Night (Farnon); QUEEN’S HALL LIGHT ORCH / ROBERT FARNON - Manhattan Playboy (Farnon); SIDNEY TORCH - Beachcomber (Clive Richardson), Caribbean Caprice (Len Stevens), The Red Sombrero (Ronald Binge); ETHEL SMITH (organ) - The Green Cockatoo; THE COLUMBIA ORCHESTRA - Running Off The Rails (Clive Richardson), Stringopation (David Rose); PETER YORKE - Melody Of The Stars (Yorke), Humpty Dumpty (arr. Yorke); MORTON GOULD - La Cumparsita; QHLO / SIDNEY TORCH - Jamaican Rumba (Arthur Benjamin), The Boulevardier Frederic Curzon). Memoir CDMOIR 553, 67:25. Following on the great success of "Fiddle Faddle" (CDMOIR 539 - see JIM 143, page 56) last year, here is another fine compilation from Memoir. It is becoming increasingly difficult for new collections like this to avoid duplications, and readers are likely to spot a few. But there are also some welcome newcomers, and Light Music fans should not hesitate to add this CD to their collections. Jim Palm has contributed some excellent booklet notes and Ted Kendall has worked wonders with his remastering (he also did the four previous memoir CDs listed above). Occasionally some surface noise is evident, but at a quite acceptable level. With a Song in my Heart is a case in point; every reissue I’ve heard seems to have problems with this recording, but at least Ted hasn’t tried to mask the difficulties by leaving out the opening, or a big chunk at the end, as on the recent disappointing Empress CD. Perhaps our non-British readers might wonder why this particular recording crops up so frequently; the reason is that it introduced Family Favourites a long-running BBC record request programme still remembered with affection by the over 40’s! Top marks to Memoir for another fine CD. David Ades

ERNST FISCHER : "Rhapsody" Jugendstreiche (Concert overture), In Dur und Moll (Concerto for Piano and Orchestra), Suite - In Vino Veritas, Heimkehr und Rückblick (from the suite - Ferientage), plus three songs from ‘Das Land ohne Musik (Land Without Music). WDR Radio Orchestra conducted by Peter Falk. (Germany) Monopol Records 5240, 49:15 mins. This is a further tribute to the distinguished German composer Ernst Fischer (1900-1975) who would have celebrated his 100th birthday last year. The only disappointment is that this CD lasts barely under 50 minutes - surely he deserves a greater honour! However Fischer’s masterpieces of light concert music are so entertaining that each new release is most welcome. Once again this new CD illustrates the rich melodies he created, brilliantly orchestrated for full orchestra. The highlight of the programme is unquestionably his 18-minute concert work for piano and orchestra "In Dur und Moll", composed in 1951. In the four varied movements - Introduction, Scherzo, Intermezzo lirico and Rondo-Finale - Fischer pulls out all the stops, including a lively piano part which represents a real challenge for any pianist. The young German pianist, Beate Berthold, performs it here with great style and enthusiasm. The other orchestral works are also very entertaining. Three vocal items are taken from Ernst Fischer’s only operetta "Das Land ohne Musik". They reveal another, lesser known aspect of his creativity. The CD was recorded in Cologne in 1993, with a sharp and vivid sound which perfectly captures the WDR Radio Orchestra to its best advantage. Hans Schubert, one of Fischer’s good friends, has written the booklet notes which contain many interesting details of his life and work, previously unknown to the general public. We learn how Fischer successfully declined membership of the NSDAP offered to him by the Nazis. Also that his composition Truppen-Parade (Military Parade) was banned because it was not sufficiently military sounding! Alexander Schatte

BRITISH LIGHT OVERTURES Volume 1 Caramba (William Blezard); Overture to a Costume Comedy (Stanley Black); Overture and Beginners (James Langley); Tantivy Towers (Thomas Dunhill); Boy Wizard (Herbert Chappell); Festive Overture (Walter Carroll); Overture to an Unwritten Comedy (Michael Hurd); The Arcadians (Lionel Monckton); ASpa Overture (Philip Lane); Concert Overture (Thomas Pitfield); Sussex Symphony Overture (Paul Lewis) Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland ASV CDWHL 2130, total playing time 66:27. Is there no limit to what Philip Lane can unearth from the Light Music archives of this country? In his latest marvellous mid-price offering from ASV we are treated to another collection of recovered gems interspersed with some outstanding contemporary pieces. Apart from The Arcadians, they will be unfamiliar to most of us but hopefully not for too long. Tantivy Towers was a 1931 musical staged at the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith while A Spa Overture is based on Philip Lane’s home town of Cheltenham. An interesting set of sleeve notes explains how all the other overtures came into being together with a potted biography of each composer. How fortunate we are that several major record companies now recognise the public interest in Light Music. If only the BBC would do the same! Peter WorsleyThere may be (though one doubts it!) readers of ‘Keeping Track’ who believe that enough is as good as a feast, and that eleven overtures – one after another – are a bit much. But programmability is one of the real benefits of CD Audio. If it’s some time since you last heard Stanley Black’s delightful pastiche, or the jolly and almost indecently tuneful Monckton/ Wood concoction, and wish to discover lots more equally super music herein – I can safely say: go out, get this, programme it judiciously and it will give enjoyment unlimited. Plus mark: the evocative inlay cover photo (Stanton High Street in the Cotswolds, with not a horseless carriage in sight). John E. Govier The above reviewers have almost said it all, but has anyone heard a better overture composed in the past five years than theSussex Symphony Overture by Paul Lewis? What sheer exuberance, coupled with melodious charm and sensitivity. David Ades

ERIC COATES – British Light Music (Volume 2) Calling All Workers; Springtime – Suite; From Meadow to Mayfair – Suite; With a Song in my Heart – Symphonic Rhapsody; London Again – Suite; By the Tamarisk; The Three Bears – Phantasy. Eric Coates conducting various orchestrasNaxos Historical 8110182, total playing time 62:20 minutes. If you missed the Conifer collections of Eric Coates’ recordings some years ago, then you may wish to consider this recent release of some of the finest Light Music ever composed. The transfers are just about acceptable, but not up to the standard we have come to expect these days. Naxos should exercise greater quality control over their historical issues, otherwise there is a danger that they will acquire a reputation for being inferior to others. Unfortunately this comment also applies to the technical quality of the Ketèlbey CD reviewed below. David Ades

ALBERT KETÈLBEY Volume 2 The Sacred Hour; Bells Across the Meadows; In a Fairy Realm – Suite; Algerian Scene; Fairy Butterfly; King Cupid; In the Mystic Land of Egypt; Wedgewood Blue; Sanctuary of the Heart; In a Persian Market; A Dream of Christmas; In a Monastery Garden Various Orchestras and Singers NAXOS 8110848, 61:42 mins. Another splendid collection of Ketèlbey originals from the Tens, Twenties and Thirties but this time including a vocal flavour. The singers on various tracks are Peter Dawson, Florence Smithson, Dennis Noble, Nellie Walker, Robert Easton and Oscar Natzke, while Albert Sandler also pops up with a violin solo. Ketèlbey himself conducts most of the pieces but also wielding the baton are Ray Noble, Henry Geehl and Charles Prentice. The transfers are clean and melodious, making this a most welcome addition to the repertoire, especially the seldom heard and truly delightful In a Fairy Realm. Peter Worsley

SALONORCHESTER SCHWANEN conducted by GEORG HUBER Salon Orchestra Favourites Volume 2 Blauer Himmel (Josef Rixner); Funiculi Funicula (Luigi Denza); Avant de Mourir (Georges Boulanger); South of the Alps (Ernst Fischer); Blue Tango, Belle of the Ball (Leroy Anderson); Dark Eyes (A. Ferraris); Gerhardt Winkler Medley (Winkler); A Media Luz (Edgardo Donato); Midnight on the Alster (Oscar Fetras); Puszta Fox (Mihaly Erdelyi); I Kiss Your Hand Madame (Ralph Erwin).Naxos 8555344, time 65:41 mins. Yet more classic Light Music from ‘the day before yesterday’ stylishly and sympathetically performed by musicians of today. Auditioning this release via headphones brought it home to me once again: Light music is rather more than just a succession of nice tunes – performances with this degree of intimacy and understanding bring out all the harmonic subtleties and rhythmic nuances which prove it! If you enjoyed the previous volume, I’ve no doubt that you will approve of this one. John E. Govier

GREAT OPERETTA RECORDINGS Pirates of Penzance & Trial By Jury Naxos 8.110196/7 D’Oyly Carte Opera Company conducted by Isidore Godfrey. Attention all G & S fans because here is another great complete historic recording to add to HMS Pinafore and The Mikado already in the Naxos bargain bag. Dating from 1949 it features all the greats of the time with Martyn Green and Darrell Fancourt leading the way. There is little more to say – it’s a bargain – and with Trial By Jurytoo! Edmund Whitehouse All Naxos CDs are available from the RFS record Service.

LIGHT CLASSICS Dance Music From Old Vienna Naxos 8.555689A collection of 15 waltzes, galops and polkas recorded in the mid-19th Century style by the modern Tanzqurett Wienn, from which you will deduce that all the track listings are in German – although fortunately not the sleeve notes which have an English version by Keith Anderson. This is salon music from the high point of Viennese culture. If that is your thing then you will enjoy this well-recorded disc. Edmund Whitehouse

LONDON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA / ANDRÉ PREVIN ‘Previn Conducts Korngold’ Film Scores from: "The Sea Hawk", "The Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex", "Captain Blood" and "The Prince and the Pauper" Deutsche Grammophon 471347-2, 67:57 mins. In recent years admirers of Korngold’s work (both for films, and in the classical sphere) have been well-served with recordings. One could be forgiven for wondering if another release was necessary, but any such doubts should be dispelled within minutes of listening to this superb new recording. The London Symphony under Andre Previn perform magnificently, and Korngold’s glorious scores have never sounded better.David Ades

ENGLISH STRING MINIATURES Volume 4 Peter Hope – Momentum Suite; Frank Bridge – Two Pieces; Adam Carse – Two Sketches; Ernest Tomlinson – Graceful Dance; Gustav Holst – A Moorside Suite; Frederick Delius – Two Aquarelles; Paul Lewis – English Suite Northern Sinfonia conducted by David Lloyd-Jones Naxos 8555070, 62:14 mins. Mining the rich and apparently bottomless seam of English string music, this team has struck gold again! Another opus from the ever-fresh imagination of Peter Hope; two student pieces by Frank Bridge ‘rescued’ by Paul Hindmarsh; something on record at last by Adam Carse (and high time, too); and a charming interlude by one of Light Music’s most distinctive voices – Ernest Tomlinson. Then there is Holst’s string arrangement of a National Contest piece for brass bands (available complete on disc at last, nearly 70 years on); Eric Fenby’s transcriptions of two Delius part-songs – magically atmospheric – and Paul Lewis’s totally endearing English Suite with its ‘spot the real ending’ finale! What a bargain! John E. Govier

TWILIGHT MEMORIES Vintage British Light MusicCurtain Up (Lambert Williamson); Sea Songs(Vaughan Williams); Folk Tune (Percy Fletcher); Waltz from The Three Bears (Eric Coates); Ascot Parade (Jack Strachey); Prunella - white kitten interlude (Leslie Bridgewater); Fiddle Dance (Percy Fletcher); The Young Ballerina - potter’s wheel interlude music (Charles Williams); Fireflies (Peter Yorke); Dance of an Ostracised Imp (Frederic Curzon); Muse in Mayfair - spinning wheel interlude music (Vivian Ellis); They Ride By Night (Charles Williams); Fandango (Sidney Torch); Shadow Waltz(Clive Richardson); Caprice for Strings (Edward White); Downland - ploughing interlude music (Cecil Milner); Wagon Lit (Sidney Torch); Goodwood Galop (Robert Farnon); Looking Around - Appleyards theme tune (Lloyd Thomas); Cumberland Green (Walter Collins); Cloudland (Bruce Campbell); Mock Turtles (Angela Morley); Petticoat Lane (Eric Siday); Strings on Wings (Ken Mackintosh); Twilight Memories (Granville Bantock). ASV LIVING ERA CD AJA 5419, 75:24 mins. The superb atmospheric colour picture on the front speaks volumes with vintage London taxis queueing outside a busy London Pavilion under the shadow of Eros in Piccadilly Circus. Twilight memories indeed with no fewer than four of the early television interlude tunes included on this marvellous new compilation by Philip Lane, Ray Crick and David Ades, with excellent sleeve notes by the latter. Vaughan Williams’ familiarSea Songs remind us of Billy Bunter being pursued by Mr. Quelch and one can almost feel the horses thundering across the South Downs in Goodwood Galop. They Ride By Night is virtually Dick Barton, Part 2 and while many of the other tunes may look unfamiliar you are sure to recognise some of them. Others will be new and that is no bad thing. Great value at mid-price. More please! Edmund Whitehouse

‘THINGS TO COME’ Original Film Music Themes 1936-1947 Things To Come; Dangerous Moonlight; The Night Has Eyes; Bambi; Love Story; The Way To The Stars; While I Live; SpellboundVarious orchestras Naxos 8120597, 60:23 mins. An interesting, and sometimes surprising, mixture of film themes which have almost all been available before on other CDs. Again I have to sound a note of caution regarding the quality of the sound restoration: these days it should be better than this.David Ades

BERLIN PHILHARMONIC conducted by NICO DOSTAL ‘In My Mountains’ Frőhliches Spiel, Spanische Skizzen, Wiener Erinnerungen, Blues-Fantasie, Ein Mond für Verliebte, In Meinen Bergen.CPO 9998112, playing time 54:10 mins. This is a reissue of a famous LP that will delight our German RFS members. Others wishing to explore new musical pastures will also find it very enjoyable. David Ades

FAMOUS OPERETTA MELODIES Excerpts from: The Gypsy Baron, Pique Dame, The Birdseller, Gasparone, La Belle Hé/ène, Boccaccio, Sir Pazman, The Beggar Student, Countess Dubarry, The Opera Ball, Orpheus in the Underworld, The Envchanted Castle, A Night in Venice, Woodruff, La Poupée, Bluebird, Hunt for Fortune, Die Fledermaus, The Pearl of Iberia, Berlin Weeps and Laughs, Fatinitza, Apajune, The Tales of Hoffman, The Bells of Corneville, The Kahlenberg Village Polka The Raphaele Concert Orchestra conducted by Peter Walden and Erwin Rondell ASV CDWLZ 261 (2 CDs), 142:38 mins. This is a commercial release of the two Mozart Edition CDs which were available through the RFS several years ago – Volume 1 MECD1002, & Volume 2 MECD1004.

ENGLISH BASSOON CONCERTOS Concerto in D (Eric Fogg); Concertino (John Addison); Concertino (Peter Hope); Summer Music (Arthur Butterworth*) – Graham Salvage (bassoon) and the Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland ASV CD WHL2132, 75:51 mins. For far too long, and probably on account of its appearance, the bassoon carried an undeserved stigma as the low comedian of the orchestra. People forgot (if indeed they knew) that Mozart and Weber wrote delightful concertos for the instrument, and failed to notice its many expressive solos throughout the concert repertoire. True, it hasn’t had quite the same degree of solo exposure as the oboe, flute or clarinet. This CD makes a fully worthy companion to "English Oboe Concertos" (see JIM 148, page 62). There are no end of beautiful (and truly musical) sounds to delight the ear and stimulate the mind, and the disc is recommended without reserve to all bassoon devotees and other attentive listeners with a taste for the unexpected. John E. Govier

20th CENTURY CONCERTI Tuba Concerto by John Williams; Harp Concertino by Germaine Tailleferre; Saxophone Concerto by Henri Tomasi; Xylophone Concerto by Toshiro Mayuzumi.Foundation Orchestra conducted by David Snell. ASV LIVING DIGITAL CD DCA 1126. This most unusual disc is to be welcomed simply because it makes pleasant listening and you are therefore unlikely to hear the music on Radio 3! John Williams of Star Wars fame was for many years conductor of the Boston Pops Orchestra while Germaine Tailleferre was the female member of France’s "Les Six". Henri Tomasi was also French while Mayuzumi, despite being Japanese, also wrote for Hollywood film epics. Certain similarities with Ronald Binge can be heard in sections of theSaxophone Concerto but the rest of the CD defies categorisation. This is not a criticism because we must continue to support those who, like ASV, eschew the avant garde and continue to give us music which is pleasing on the ear. Peter Worsley

MANTOVANI AND HIS ORCHESTRA ‘Candlelight’ Candlelight, You Stepped Out of a Dream, Blue Fantasy, Merry-go-round, Stradivarius, Gold and Silver, Brass Buttons, Longing, Heart of Paris, Take my Love, Spring in Montmartre, Song of Sorrento ‘Favourite Melodies Vol. 3’ The Lonely Ballerina, Dusk, Ma Chere Amie, June Night, The Deserted Ballroom, Naila – waltz, Lazy Gondolier, Begin the Beguine, Intermezzo from ‘Cavalleria Rusticana’, Dream Dream Dream, Edelma, Come Back to MeVocalion CDLK4136, 70:51 mins. Editor: the advance details we received for this CD did not indicate that the third volume of ‘Favourite Melodies’ had been chosen. Therefore we regret that the details on page 93 of our last issue were incorrect, and we apologise to our readers for any inconvenience this may have caused.

PEACOCK PIE – English Music for Piano and String Orchestra Concertino (Gordon Jacob, 1895-1984); Concertino (Armstrong Gibbs, 1889-1960); Miniature Suite (Cyril Rootham, 1875-1938); Concertino in E major (Robin Milford, 1903-1959); Suite for Strings and Piano ‘Peacock Pie’ (Gibbs); Festival Scherzo (Madeleine Dring (1923-1977). Martin Roscoe (piano) and the Guildhall Strings, leader Robert Salter Hyperion CDA67316, 60:14 mins. More real music for real music lovers – aural equivalents of our English country lanes and footpaths untainted by packaged tourism. The musical environment to which the works originally belonged (1921 to 1958) may have been a largely insular and conservative one; but these five composers each have something distinctive to offer, and repeated listening will yield fresh delights. I do hope that rather a lot of you will investigate this beautifully-made CD for yourselves..John E. Govier

ANDRE KOSTELANETZ ORCHESTRA ‘The Kostelanetz Touch’ With a Song in my Heart, Tiger Rag, Swamp Fire, Fascinatin’ Rhythm, ‘S Wonderful, Bugle Call Rag, Music of Jerome Kern, Estrellita, Dancing in the Dark, Turkey in the Straw, Poeme, Liebestraum, Manhattan Serenade, Blues in the Night, My Sombrero, Night and Day, Flamingo, Coubacaban, When Day is Done, I’ll see You AgainASV Living Era CD AJA5422, 73:43 mins. There are some of Kosty’s finest tracks in this collection, plus a few that he might have wished had been buried long ago! You certainly get an insight into his varied early career, and this medium-price release will be welcomed by his many admirers. David Ades

CONCERTO FOR ORCHESTRA Three separate pieces entitled Concerto for Orchestra by Edward Gregson, Alun Hoddinott and John McCabe. Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Douglas Bostock Classico CLASSCD 384. All three works are world premieres and Classico are again deserving of congratulation for recording something unusual. Their policy is to release British music previously unheard or unknown, but worth listening to. This CD certainly fits the bill but how does one summarise it? The three composers will probably shoot me for saying it but the nearest descriptive title I can think of is "film music". If you like dramatic scores then this is for you. It is not light music but then nor is it heavy either. Something in between sounds muddled and mundane so the best thing to do is to try it out. Peter Worsley

THEA KING clarinet, with Northwest Chamber Orchestra of Seattle conducted by Alun Francis Concerto for Clarinet and Strings (Alan Rawsthorne); Mini-Concerto for Clarinet and Strings (Gordon Jacob); Concerto for Clarinet and Strings (Arnold Cooke). Helios CDH55069. Releases featuring concertos and other soloist-orchestra works by British composers (often long undervalued or ignored ones) have been coming out with some frequency lately. In fact, this recital formed one of Hyperion’s early issues, and the LP has been in my own collection since the 1980s. So, assuming you share my enthusiasm for this repertoire, and like the composers too, I feel safe in drawing to your attention this very modestly-priced reissue. John E. Govier

HOLLYWOOD GREATS: ESTHER WILLIAMS. Soundtracks from MGM’s DANGEROUS WHEN WET, Music and Lyrics by Arthur Schwartz and Johnny Mercer, performed by Esther Williams, Fernando Lamas, Jack Carson, Charlotte Greenwood, Denise Darcel, William Demarest, Barbara Whiting, and Donna Corcoran (uncredited), Musical Director George Stoll, Arrangements by Skip Martin (both uncredited). Overture/I Got out of Bed on the Right Side, I Like Men, In My Wildest Dreams, Ain’t Nature Grand, Finale.JUPITER’S DARLING: Music and Lyrics by Burton Lane and Harold Adamson, performed by Esther Williams (dubbed by Jo Ann Greer), Marge and Gower Champion, Howard Keel, Musical Director and Arrangements by David Rose (uncredited). Overture, If This be Slav’ry, I Have a Dream, Hannibal’s Victory March, I Never Trust a Woman, Don’t Let This Night Get away, The Life of an Elephant, Finale.EASY TO LOVE: Music and Lyrics by Mann Curtis and Vic Mizzy, also Cole Porter, performed by Esther Williams (dubbed by Betty Wand) and Tony Martin, Musical Directors, Lennie Hayton and George Stoll (both uncredited), Arrangements by Skip Martin and Pete Rugolo (both uncredited). Overture, Water Sequence, Didja’ Ever!, Look Out! I’m Romantic, Easy to Love, That’s what a Rainy Day is For, Finale.(ITALY) HITLAND HG 003 70:23mins

HOLLYWOOD GREATS: JANE RUSSELL. Soundtracks from THE FRENCH LINE, Music and Lyrics by Josef Myrow, Ralph Blane and Robert Wells, performed by Jane Russell, Gilbert Roland and Mary McCarty, Music Arranged and Conducted by Walter Scharf (uncredited). The French Line, Well I’ll be Switched, Any Gal from Texas, Lookin’ for Trouble, What is this that I Feel, Comment Allez Vous, With a Kiss, Wait til you see Paris.GENTLEMEN MARRY BRUNETTES performed by Jane Russell, Anita Ellis (uncredited), Alan Young, Rudy Vallee, Johnny Desmond (uncredited), Robert Farnon (uncredited), MUSICAL DIRECTOR, ROBERT FARNON: Gentlemen Marry Brunettes, You’re Driving me Crazy, Miss Annabelle Lee, Have You met Miss Jones?, My Funny Valentine, I’ve Got Five Dollars, I Wanna be Loved by You, Daddy, Ain’t Misbehavin’, Finale (ITALY) HITLAND HG 006 55:46 mins

Esther Williams, in her candid autobiography ‘The Million Dollar Mermaid’ (published by Simon and Schuster 1999) was quite happy to admit that her singing voice was invariably dubbed by someone else, which makes a CD celebrating her vocal talents questionable. But this is part of a series of budget priced albums entitled ‘Hollywood Greats’, produced in Milan, which often focuses on unusual soundtrack scores that are presented in a dubious quality reminiscent of the ‘pirate’ LPs of old. Certainly MGM records never chose to issue these Esther Williams movie soundtracks when the films were released. Several orchestral highlights will intrigue MGM aficionados, because you get all the Main Title Overtures (with or without Leo the Lion), plus some ballet and production music. My highlight from ‘Jupiter’s Darling’ is the song ‘I Had a Dream’, which segues into a five minute underwater ballet demonstrating David Rose’s genius. ‘Easy to Love’ includes two Busby Berkeley production numbers, including the seven minute ‘Aquacade’ Finale putting the MGM Studio Orchestra through its paces, as the cameras fast track a team of stunt water-skiers through the Florida everglades. This exhausting sequence is actually an up tempo arrangement of Paul Linke’s genteel ‘Beautiful Spring’, but that remains uncredited in the mostly irrelevant sleeve notes provided by this series of CDs. The audio sounds as if taken from optical tracks of prints of the movies - and that means ‘Jupiter’s Darling’ is not in its original stereo. I discovered this CD at Tower Records in Piccadilly Circus, London. Other MGM scores issued include ‘Athena’, ‘Yolanda and the Thief’ and ‘Everything I have is Yours’. JANE RUSSELL’s vocal talents were amply demonstrated in her Academy Award winning song ‘Buttons and Bows’ from ‘The Paleface’, and in ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes’ when she had star billing over Marilyn Monroe. Hitland presents us with the soundtracks from two of her lesser- known movies - although ‘soundtrack’ is not true for ‘The French Line’. This turns out to be a muddy and at times distorted transfer of a 10 inch Mercury LP of the film’s songs, plus an opening that bears no resemblance to Walter Scharf’s original bouncy orchestral Main Title. These tracks were all recorded to construct an LP issue and they don’t appear in the order as performed in the film. The one big production number, ‘Any Gal from Texas’ is reduced to shreds, and Jane’s burlesque ‘Lookin’ for Trouble’, originally the risqué finale, appears without the repartee in a number which caused a convenient promotional furore for the movie’s release: interesting how 50’s ‘risqué’ now comes across as high camp. Fortunately the transfer of the 12 inch soundtrack LP of ‘Gentlemen Marry Brunettes’ fares much better, although it’s not quite as bright as my Japanese LP reissue of 1976 and I doubt whether it emanates from the master tapes. Nevertheless, there’s much to enjoy in this one, as we’d come to expect from its distinguished musical director, who creates the sound of a big Hollywood Musical on a British sound stage. The score is a curious one, with only one original song, the rest being taken mainly from the catalogue of Rodgers and Hart, but there’s certainly nothing wrong with that. Apparently there was a race to prepare all the playback tracks in time, with Bob having to call in Angela Morley and Douglas Gamley for a bit of help at the eleventh hour. Another problem occurred at the playback recording session itself. It was discovered that the singing voice of Scott Brady, the film’s male lead, wasn’t up to scratch, so Bob himself sang the part, proving that he has a fine voice when the occasion demands (and that Mr. Brady had a persuasive agent). Unlike the LP cover, this CD does not give that credit where it falls due. This was always a cleverly produced album, with a mixture of music tracks plus some sections taken from the final mix of the film, i.e. with sound effects and dialogue, to create continuity. The mono LP never had room for any of the Farnon background score, and it was a revelation to see this film on cable television recently and hear it for the first time in stereo. Don’t expect too much from these albums, because they don’t have the superb technical polish and liner notes of such Turner Classics CDs as ‘Romantic Duets from MGM Classics’ (Turner R2 72826) and better still, the 6 box set ‘That’s Entertainment - The Ultimate Anthology of MGM Musicals’ (Turner R2 72182). That one includes a wealth of material in addition to the three ‘That’s Entertainment’ films, much of it never before issued. A detailed track listing can be found on the American website of amazon.com. Both of those issues will give you an insight into quality remastering, because you can compare certain tracks duplicated in the MGM ‘Hollywood Greats’ albums. Richard Hindley

CARROLL GIBBONS and The Savoy Hotel Orpheans Vol. 2 These Bands Made Music (BBC); So Shy; You’re Such a Comfort to Me; Fools Rush In; My Own Folks; Jeepers Creepers; What Harlem Is To Me; The Masquerade Is Over; I’m Just Beginning To Care; I Fall In Love With You Every Day; I Poured My Heart Into a Song; I Used To Be Colour Blind; It’s a Long Long Way to Your Heart; Seal It With a Kiss; Music Puts Me in the Strangest Mood; What’s New; Music for Romance. 77:34 mins. (Australia) Frank Bristow FBCD74.

MELACHRINO ORCHESTRA conducted by GEORGE MELACHRINO ‘Great Show Medleys’ The King and I, Guys and Dolls, The Dancing Years, Deep in my Heart, Gershwin Fantasy, Kismet, The Pajama Game, Summer Song, Three Little Words (Australia) Frank Bristow FBCD80.

BOSTON POPS ORCHESTRA ‘Lollipops’ Look Sharp - Be Sharp, March of the Little Lead Soldiers, Musical Snuff Box, Richard Rodgers Waltz Medley, Entrance of the Little Fauns, Mosquito Dance, Pop Goes the Weasel, Entry of the Boyards, etc… 79:24 mins. (Australia) Frank Bristow FBCD76. I have always regarded the Boston Pops Orchestra (I grew up knowing it as the Boston PromenadeOrchestra) like the proverbial curate’s egg: some of its records were very good, while others I found distinctly boring. No doubt its 78s reflected the kind of music it performed at its public concerts, where it was often necessary to play well-known numbers in order to get the audience inside. Concert promoters have to rely upon the familiar (some people like to know the music they are hearing), but record buyers can be more selective. Frank Bristow’s collection is a faithful representation of the usual fare provided by the Boston Pops, but I wish he had omitted the two selections of old time songs, and I could have done without some of the light classics. Having said that (and you may violently disagree with my very personal opinion!), this CD contains some pleasant surprises. The opening track, Bob Merrick’s Look Sharp – Be Sharp is a splendid bright march, tuneful and uplifting. Another excellent track is Prairie Sky from Dimitri Tiomkin’s score for ‘Duel In The Sun’, which is followed by the more familiar On the Trail to Spanish Bit from the same film. Cuckoo Clock by Castillo is quite charming (and mercifully without too many clock effects), and I enjoyed Jack Mason’s Candlelight Waltz. Victor Herbert’s Dagger Dance from ‘Natoma’ is another welcome inclusion. Full marks, too, for the comprehensive booklet notes. David Ades

DAVID ROSE AND HIS ORCHESTRA ‘Rose Plays Rose’ Volume 2 (Australia) Frank Bristow EXCD26/27, 143 mins. 47 marvellous titles which explore David Rose’s talents to the full (if you prefer to call it genius you wouldn’t get any argument from me), even more so than in the single "Rose Plays Rose" CD I reviewed in JIM 148. Every aspect of the composer / conductor’s range can be found here, from the full orchestral style and sound of Majorca (all 7:10 mins of it), to the swinging Banned in Boston and The Stripper. Along the way we have such old favourites as Holiday for Strings, One Love, Our Waltz, Dance of the Spanish Onion and California Melodies, along with exquisite miniatures like The Tiny Ballerina Who Could Only Dance In The Key of C, Deserted City, Rose of Bel Air, 4.20am, Gay Spirits, Manhattan Square Dance, Waltz of the Bubbles andStringopation. Most of these have become familiar over the years, but even die-hard fans of David Rose like myself can find something new. But all, wither old or new, are equally acceptable, making an enjoyable 2hours 23 mins of the nicest music of this or any year. Arthur Jackson

DEBROY SOMERS BAND ‘Totally Instrumental’ Ice Rink Medley, Sea Songs Medley, Ballroom Memories, Ballads we Love, American Medley, Archibald Joyce Waltzes, Russian Fantasy, Waltz Medley, Carmen Capers, Faust Frolics, 1812 and all That, Happy and Glorious, Let’s Sing a Song, A Stanford Rhapsody (Australia) Frank Bristow FBCD78, 78:48 mins. Alongside all his other projects, Frank Bristow is currently making much of the Debroy Somers repertoire available once again on CD. Almost forgotten today, Somers was very popular in the 1920s and 1930s, and he remained active in London theatres until his death on 27 May 1952. Perhaps his music may have dated more than some of his contemporaries, and maybe the kind of patriotic medleys which were his speciality are out of touch with today’s cynical world as portrayed in the media. (This notion was severely tested in Britain following the death of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, when millions were unashamed to reveal their patriotic feelings. More than one commentator suggested that the media – both press and broadcasting – were out of touch with the true feelings of the population. And following the events of September 11th our American friends also know how to express their love for their country). But to return to Debroy Somers: this CD of instrumentals reveals why he was so popular, with tuneful music delightfully arranged and expertly performed. Alan Bunting’s sound restorations cannot be faulted, and at times are simply amazing. Our grandfathers never knew that the coarse grooves on their 78s contained so much music! David Ades

STEVE TYRELL: STANDARD TIME: It Had To Be You; Until The Real Thing Comes Along; Ain't Misbehavin'; That Old Feeling; Stardust; As Time Goes By plus 9 other songs. 56:02. Columbia CK 86006. Talk about an enjoyable disc! In spite of his weather-beaten, voice, Steve Tyrell has become one America's leading exponents of the great standards. His enthusiasm for the lyrics and the music make up for any vocal shortcomings. The tone of this CD is upbeat starting off with a lively "It Had To Be You" that leaps out of the tracks. Plas Johnson on tenor sax plays great obbligatos and solos on numbers such as "That Old Feeling" while "Toots" Thielemans on harmonica weaves a magic spell over"Stardust" Clark Terry is fabulously inventive on "It Had To Be You". There's also a light hearted tribute to Harry "Sweets" Edison (who passed away shortly after these sessions began) who plays a feathery light muted solo on "Remembering Sweets " (based on "I Can't Give You Anything But Love") .This recording by Steve Tyrell is one the fastest selling CD's in America. Don't take my word for it--just buy this enjoyable recording and find out for yourself. Richard Jessen

SID PHILLIPS AND HIS GREAT JAZZ BAND Hors d’oeuvres, Mood Indigo, Indiana, Lazy River, You Turned the Tables on Me, All Alone, etc.. 24 tracks Vocalion CDLK4122, 63:23 mins. This is a second volume of tuneful jazz from one of Britain’s greatest exponents. No further comment is necessary.

RUSSELL MALONE: HEARTSTRINGS:Heartstrings; How About Me; Loved Ones; You Needed Me; Handful Of Stars; Wind In The Willow plus 4 other selections. 46:08. Verve 314549786-2. Russell Malone has a gorgeously soft tone to his playing which is accented by the lovely scores of Johnny Mandel, Alan Broadbent and Dori Caymmi. Both Mandel scores ( "Heartstrings", "How About Me") are ethereal sounding with something added that the other scores don't have: vibes and harp. Alan Broadbent writes colourful string charts that never sound boring. His best chart is for "You Needed Me" which transcends its country music origins. Dori Caymmi writes interesting harmonic shifts in his writing for "Wind In The Willow". Kenny Barron on piano gets two solos, the most ravishing one being on "Why Try To Change Me". A surprise awaits the ending, for we get the old gospel number "What A Friend We Have In Jesus" which Malone plays in a highly inventive way. This is definitely made for late evening activities--whatever they may be! Richard Jessen

RONNIE ALDRICH and his Piano with the Strings of the London Festival Orchestra ‘Romantic Pianos’ & ‘Magnificent Pianos’ Deep Purple, More Than You Know, I’ll Never Smile Again, Embraceable You, Don’t Blame Me, I Have Dreamed, September Song, I’m In The Mood For Love, etc… 24 tracks Vocalion CDLK4135, 67:24 mins. Rather surprisingly, Ronnie Aldrich has tended to be ignored on CD reissues, although he has cropped up on various compilations. Mike Dutton has cleverly spotted this gap in the market, and this CD combines two Phase-4 stereo albums containing a vintage selection of standards.

ANDRE KOSTELANETZ: SCENARIOS FOR ORCHESTRA:Jerome Kern: "Showboat" Scenario for Orchestra; Richard Rodgers / Arranged by Robert Russell Bennett: "South Pacific" Symphonic Scenario for Concert Orchestra; Richard Rodgers: "Slaughter On Tenth Avenue" Ballet Music From "On Your Toes"; George Gershwin: An American In Paris; Gershwin: A Symphonic Picture of "Porgy And Bess" (Arranged by Robert Russell Bennett). 73:71. Collectables COTJ-CD-6800. Andre Kostelanetz was once referred to by Columbia Records as "Music's Leading Man". He leads not only the New York Philharmonic but also a studio group as well as the first recordings in an aborted series by The Philadelphia Orchestra "Pops", recorded in the Academy of Music. Jerome Kern was asked by Cleveland Orchestra maestro Artur Rodzinski to write a scenario based on themes from Kern's hit musical "Show Boat". The Philadelphia Orchestra plays magnificently under Kostelanetz as they do for Bennett's arrangement of "South Pacific". "Slaughter" has more than enough menace due to the Philadelphians' golden tone. The two remaining Gershwin works, however, suffer from sloppy editing (due possibly to either the original tapes not being made available or a vain attempt at shortening the duration of the CD). Nevertheless, these are historic performances. To help solve the mystery of the bad edits, members who have Columbias ML 4514, CL 806, ML 4454, ML 4904 are encouraged to contact me via the magazine. Richard Jessen Editor: although this CD was reviewed in our last issue, Richard has raised some queries regarding editing which other members may wish to address.

SUSANNAH McCORKLE: HEARTS AND MINDS:I Can Dream, Can't I?; Love Is Here To Stay; My Attorney Bernie; For All We Know; The Computer Age; I Don't Want To Set The World On Fire plus 9 other songs. 66:39. Concord Jazz CCD-4897- 2. This is the next to last recording by an artist who left us too early. Susannah McCorkle jumped to her death in May of 2001 at the youthful age of 55, having suffered from depression most of her life. She always impressed one as a bright, intelligent person with a clear yet husky voice touched with awesome depths of warmth and humor. Along with a romantic "I Can Dream, Can't I?" are hilarious yet timely songs by Dave Frishberg--"My Attorney Bernie" and a song for all worry warts "What Did I Forget?" For single people getting out of relations, there's a priceless "Feet Do Your Stuff" as well as McCorkle' s own skewering of "The Computer Age (In Motion)." There's the deeply intimate lyrics of "Scars." McCorkle was that rarity of a performer: grace and wit in an increasing insane world. Richard Jessen

ITDON’T MEAN A THING …. Ivie Anderson with Duke EllingtonIt Don’t Mean a Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing; Get Yourself a New Broom; I’m Satisfied; Troubled Waters; My Old Flame; Cotton; Truckin'; Isn’t Love the Strangest Thing?; Kissin’ My Baby Goodnight; Oh Babe, Maybe Someday; Shoe Shine Boy; It Was a Sad Night in Harlem; Did Anyone Ever Tell You?; There’s a Lull in My Life; All God’s Chillun Got Rhythm; Rose of the Rio Grande; When My Sugar Walks Down the Street; I’m Checkin’ Out, Goo’mbye’ A Lonely Co-ed; Stormy Weather; Mood Indigo; Me and You; I Got It Bad and That Ain’t Good; Rocks In My Bed; I Don’t Mind; Empty Bed Blues. ASV LIVING ERA CD AJA 5420. If you like swinging blues then these two latest releases from ASV will have your feet tapping under the table. All Duke Ellington fans will welcome Ivie Anderson’s voice because she was good at her trade and also his longest serving singer. The tracks date from 1937-40 but sadly, she died at her peak, aged only 45 in 1949. If you prefer to mix your swinging blues, however, then the first disc will give you plenty of choice, ranging from the sensational Ethel Waters and Annette Hanshaw in the late-Twenties right through to the end of the Thirties. There is not a weak track amongst them!Edmund Whitehouse All ASV CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.

A GIRL FOR ALL SEASONSNightride (Rosso, Kennedy); Simone (Gerhard Narholz); Hippy Hoedown (Syd Dale); Cockles and Mussels (Trad. Arr John Curran); Wait Till Friday (Brian Fahey); Love in Montmartre (Jimmy Kennedy); Holiday Jet (Otto Sieben); Milwaukee (Alstone, Kennedy); Funky Trumpets (Johnny Edwards); Country Capers (Kennedy); Chilli Con Vino (James Clarke); Stay Tuned (Kennedy); Somewhere Downtown (Narholz); Have Band Will Travel (Dale); One-Eyes Reilly and the Old Rigadoo (arr. Curran); The Big Race (Narholz); Left Bank Waltz (Kennedy); Bahia Bay (Tony Hatch); A Dash of Nashville 9Kennedy); Hello You (Tony Tape); Up the Down Staircase (Kennedy); Holly Go Lightly (Dale); Feeling Happy (Heidi Pehofer); Gaiety Girl (Vivian Ellis); A Touch of Bossa Nova (Narholz); Slippery Samba (Kennedy); Down by the Severnside (Kennedy). Codename Music CMCD154. Emerging from the "quality recordings" stable of "Codename Music" who have been responsible in the past for "Cocktail Swing" and the magnificent themes album "Girl In A Suitcase", comes this dynamic CD of instrumentals from Jimmy Kennedy, Tony Hatch, Syd Dale, James Clarke, Brian Fahey and Gerhard Narholz who may be more familiar to you as Norman Candler. This CD bursts into melodic array with a Trade Test classic opener Nightride and gently sways through 27 tracks. The Evergreen Players and The Dixie Dynamoes punctuate the disc nicely with old tyme favourites such as Cockles and Mussels and One-Eyed Reilly And The Old Rigadoo. Melodic German 70's instrumentals feature here from the Sonoton Music Library and are the original recordings not released before on any previous production CD. This CD will appeal to members looking more for melody as it does not fall into the category of another production library CD.

Malcolm Batchelor See advertisement on page 90 for details of how to buy this CD.

HUGO MONTENEGRO Good Vibrations, (Spain) RCA 74321695052. 11 tracks. Timing 28:35. Despite its incredibly short running time this CD is an essential album for any Montenegro fan as it includes his memorable music from the film Lady In Cement, as well as Another Time Another Place, histheme to The Outcasts US TV show. There are also several superb versions of chart hits including the title track (the Beach Boys classic), Mason Williams Classical Gas and a stunning take of Paul Mauriat’s Love Is Blue, all featuring the Montenegro trademarks -- smooth-as-silk vocals, harpsichord, whistling from sessioner Muzzy Marcellino and tight, up-tempo pop arrangements. This album represents the composer/arranger at his peak in 1969 and is a delight from start to finish. The only fault (as with all these Spanish RCA imports) is that there is room to include two complete albums on the CD and it would have been better value to see the title doubled up with one of Montenegro’s other many albums. In Britain RCA imports are available from larger branches of HMV and HMV mail order (tel 08705 334578). David Noades

HUGO MONTENEGRO Hugo In Wonderland, (Spain) RCA 74321781692. 10 tracks. Timing 36:44. In complete contrast to the above title this 1974 album is atribute to the songwriting talents of Stevie Wonder, as well as a showcase for the electronic wizardry of Hugo and John Montenegro as all the titles here feature ARP and Moog synthesisers. However far from being a self-indulgent experiment the electronic sounds have been skilfully blended with a tight rhythm section to produce a hard jazz funk sound which impressed Stevie Wonder so much that he invited the Montenegro’s to contribute to his next album. The more up-tempo titles fare better in this form than the slower ballads, but the whole album works. Highlights include a breezy, jazzy take ofToo High, the funky stomp of Living For The City and an urgent, up-tempo reading of the classicSuperstition, with some bizarre electronic effects. The album features a host of famous session names including appropriately Tamla Motown’s bassist Carol Kaye, Larry Carlton (guitar), Tom Scott (woodwind) and keyboard player Clare Fischer best known for her work with Henry Mancini. As with all these Spanish RCA re-issues the album comes with its original artwork and sleevenotes. In Britain RCA imports are available from larger branches of HMV and HMV mail order (tel 08705 334578).David Noades

Various Artists, St Pauli Affairs, (Germany) Diggler Records DIG 002. 18 tracks, 47:46 mins. There has been a growing interest in European film and TV music in recent years and this compilation sees a host of themes lifted from the German Reeperbahn films which ran from 1968 to 1973. These were a series of police dramas based around Hamburg’s red light district, and this is reflected in the music with cheesy, kitsch nightclub sounds featuring organ, brass, wah-wah guitars and scat vocals (in a similar style to the Chappell Library Kitsch Pop collections). This nicely package collection brings together the best of Germany’s composers including Peter Thomas, Roland Kovak, Erwin Halletz and Sigfried Franz, with evocative titles such as Go-Go-Girl, Hunter’s Beat, Hippy Dibby and Beat In Steel. Annoyingly the sleevenotes are all in German and so we are denied a history of the films (which UK audiences have never seen) but nevertheless the music is a pleasant upbeat collection which will appeal to lovers of kitsch, sixties sounds. In Britain this is available from larger branches of Virgin and HMV and HMV mail order (tel 08705 334578). David Noades

DUDLEY MOORE Bedazzled OST, Harkit Records HRKCD 8001. 13 tracks, Timing 38.55. This long-overdue reissue is the score from the 1968 Peter Cook and Dudley Moore film which was recently (and unnecessarily) remade. Before making it as a comedy actor Moore was already a highly respected jazz and classical pianist with a string of albums to his name, and here he leads his famous jazz trio through a series of sophisticated arrangements, supported by sax, trombone, flute and string orchestra. The score is based around three mainthemes played in a variety of styles, used to great comic effect in the film, alongside two decidedly tongue-in-cheek pastiches of pop songs with vocals by Cook and Moore, plus the totally hilariousLeaping Nuns' Chorus which has to be heard to be believed. It helps to see the film to fully understand that the music is an integral part of the comedy, but the music works equally well on its own and this stylish score proves that Dudley Moore was an accomplished composer. (NB: His score to the movie Thirty Is A Dangerous Age Cynthia has also been recently issued on CD). In Britain this is available from larger branches of HMV and HMV mail order (tel 08705 334578). David Noades

Various, Billion Dollar Caine, Top Kapi Records 057, 30 tracks, 64:17 mins. This unusual collection brings together no less than 16 themes taken from various cult-appeal Michael Caine films interspersed with selections of classic dialogue. Three tracks are appearing on CD for the first time, namely the haunting title theme and Skidoo from Billion Dollar Brain (by Richard Rodney Bennett), and singer Cher’s original rendition of the Bacharach/David’s Alfie theme, but the other selections from The Ipcress File, The Italian Job and Get Carter work well in this setting, especially with the linking dialogue. This will appeal to fans of Sir Michael, as well as acting as a nice sampler for the soundtracks of the featured films, with compositions by Quincy Jones, Roy Budd, Sonny Rollins and John Barry. In Britain this is available from Rhythm Records, London (tel 0207 2670123). David Noades

WILSON MALONE, Deathline OST, Spinney 002 CD. 2 tracks. 21:35 mins. Really an extended CD single, this two track disc features the title theme and a 17-minutesuite of incidental pieces from an obscure 1972 British horror movie, known in the US somewhat provocatively by the alternate titleRaw Meat. The film concerns a series of mysterious deaths in tunnels on the London Underground, which it is eventually discovered are committed by a wretched creature that was trapped in the tunnels many years ago and now lives on human flesh! The music is appropriately disturbing, combining elements of big band, progressive rock and experimental jazz and was composed by pop songwriter/producer Wilson Malone (formerly with progressive rock bands Orange Bicycle and Motherlight). This release was born out of a late night viewing of the film by soundtrack fan Paul Lamden who thought the music deserved a wider audience and issued it on his own independent label. It’s certainly worth investigation, however while the main theme is quite listenable in an eerie, hypnotic way, the incidental pieces are perhaps a little too disturbing without the aid of the accompanying visuals. In Britain this CD should be available at mid price from larger branches of HMV and HMV mail order (tel 08705 334578). David Noades

QUINCY JONES, The Italian Job OST, MCA MCD 60074/112488-2, 12 tracks, 28:06 mins. Another long-overdue re-issue of a classic soundtrack, this time from the pen of Quincy Jones. When a top US composer is invited to write the score for what is essentially a very British picture, the result was bound to be interesting, and here it is quite magnificent. It kicks off quite sublimely with title themeOn Days Like These sung by Matt Monro, and this leads in a slow, organ-led, jazz groove Something’s Cookin which sets the pace for the whole album. Humorous moments include variations on Rule Britannia played by a string quartet, and a bizarre harpsichord-led jazz version of Greensleeves, but the film’s charm and whit is perhaps best displayed by the Cockney-style singalong Get A Bloomin' Move On presented in both vocal and instrumental versions. Better known as The Self-Preservation Society this quirky, catchy tune has been used in Nat West TVcommercials and has been sampled on several pop records, and is without doubt the reason why this album is so sought-after. The only complaints are that this is straight re-issue of the original album, and it would have been nice to have some bonus material, and while the inlay card contains a brief essay on the reason for the film’s popularity, there is no information on the recording, or the composer which would have been very welcome. In Britain this title should be available in most shops. David Noades

PIERO PICCIONI Puppet On A Chain OST, DC Recordings DC39CD, 18 tracks, 31:49 mins. Lifted from an obscure Amsterdam-based spy movie (based on an Alistair McLean novel), this previously unreleased score written by Italian composer Piero Piccioni is a delightful blend of swinging sixties lounge music and dramatic orchestral themes. Tracks such as the title theme, Night Club and Big Action are perfect examples of groovy, driving up-tempo themes, which stand up very well on their own, while a lot of the other material requires knowledge of the film to appreciate their subtleties and complexities. There are some nice touches here however including a spine-tingling church organ onThe Funeral and a stabbing piano heartbeat effect on The Fear. Interestingly the music was recorded in England, performed by The London Sinfonia and was conducted by Harry Rabinowitz. In Britain this is available from larger branches of HMV and HMV mail order (tel 08705 334578), and Rhythm Records, London (tel 0207 2670123). David Noades

LOOT OST, Keith Mansfield/Steve Ellis, RPM228, 13 tracks, 31:28 mins. Probably best known today as a production music composer for KPM, Keith Mansfield originally had a successful career as a pop producer and occasional film composer. Here he has combined elements of both providing a pop-friendly, funky rock score for the film version of Joe Orton¹s classic black comedy featuring vocals from ex Love Affair lead singer Steve Ellis (Mansfield produced the band in his days at CBS). The score features a series of soulful pop songs linked with big band instrumentals and snippets of dialogue from the film resulting in a fascinating non-stop musical melange which works from beginning to end. With the usual session musician on hand in the shape of Alan Hawkshaw (keyboards), Herbie Flowers (bass guitar) and Alan Parker (guitars), etc, it’s a superbly arranged, tightly performed package which deserves a wider audience than it received on its original release in 1970. Available in most shops in Britain. David Noades

Nino Nardini and Roger Roger, Jungle Obsession, (France) Pulp Flavor DD014CD 13 tracks, 34:19 mins. This amazing CD is a reissue of a highly obscure Creasound production music album featuring a baker’s dozen of deliciously haunting themes. Although recorded in 1971 the music harks back to the 50s and the exotic sounds of Martin Denny and Les Baxter with a superb blend of African rhythms, strings, bird calls and spine-tingling siren-like harmonies. However it is very much a product of its time as French composers Roger Roger and Nino Nardini (aka George Teperino) have included modern devices such electric guitars, synthesisers and a string machine which make an occasional appearances, resulting in a decidedly unique avante garde sound. Highlights include the title track with its rock guitar riffs and kettle drums interjections, Bagheera which blends ethereal voices, strings and synthesiser to great effect and the jazz-like mix of vibes and guitar on Bali Girl, but each and every track is a treat for the ears. The sleeve notes give a brief biography of both composers but give away little away about the origins of the music. This CD is available from Jack Diamond Music (USA) web14.topchoice.com/~dyemund/, or you can also contact Pulp Flavor direct atwww.pulpflavor.com. David Noades

Various artists, Pop Shopping Volume One, CDHW 069, 28 tracks, 67.38. Pop Shopping Volume Two, (Germany) CDHW 028, 27 tracks, 73:20 mins. Lifted from a variety of rare German promotional records these superb compilations feature a selection of full length vocal and instrumental pieces originally used in German TV and cinema advertising in the 1960s and early 1970s. Earlier examples such as The Shoe Shoe Twist and The Nescafé Calypso are very much cliched products of their time, however most are superb pieces of sophisticated beat music courtesy of the country’s top session men. These tightly-arranged themes and extended jingles are the handiwork of some of Germany’s top composers including Gert Wilden, Klaus Doldinger, Johnny Teupen and Peter Thomas, who all made their names working in this field. Each and every track is a sound adventure in itself with strange rhythm patterns, unusual instruments and occasional breathy vocals, but highlights include Wilden’s bouncy Moulinex theme, Peter Scirmann’s spaghetti western spoof for BMW cars, Luigi Pelliccioni’s Variation K for BASF which cleverly uses the acronym’s four letters (in German) as notes in the opening fanfare (Bb, A, Eb, F), and Christian Bruhn’s funky Ford Taunus theme which has borrowed a lot from Isaac Hayes’ Shaft theme. Even if you’re not familiar with the obscure German products the music stands up well on its own, and these collections will appeal to more than just fans of advertising themes. The stylish packaging deserves a mention as in both cases the CD inlay cards, tray cards and discs humorously imitate some of the products featured. However one complaint: the tracklisting on Volume 2 is in the wrong order and the so the sleevenotes inside do not make sense and it’s impossible to work out which track is which! In Britain this is available from larger branches of HMV and HMV mail order (tel 08705 334578). David Noades Editor: David Noades has kindly offered to assist any RFS members who may have difficulty in finding any of the CDs he has reviewed in this issue. You can write to him care of the Secretary, or contact him direct by e-mail at:

FRANKIE RANDALL and the Vincent Falcone Orchestra ‘Right Now@ The Best is Yet to Come, All or Nothing at All, Where or When, I Rememebr You, The Summer Wind, Slow Boat to China, You Make me Feel so Young, Get me to the Church on Time, The Lady is a Tramp, I Love You Just the Way you Are, You’re Nobody ‘till Somebody Loves You, Come Rain or Come Shine, I’ve Got You Under me Skin, Night and Day. (USA) Tin Bar Recording – no catalogue number. I did not know the name ‘Frankie Randall’! My interest was aroused by the backing orchestra, a name well known to the Farnon fraternity! The sparse sleeve notes state that Frank Sinatra entrusted many of his favourite arrangements to Frankie as a likely heir to his throne. There are a few around to dispute this! There have been (and still are) many claiming the same crown. Sinatra was a one off! If you have most of the tracks listed above in your Sinatra collection this is not for you. That said, it’s a cracking orchestra (although unaccredited), a fine set of tunes, and Frankie is a great, if not unique, singer. The CD does use many updated Sinatra charts, so the album has three plusses! When I mentioned I had bought the album to good friend and fellow member George Fraser, he informed me that Frankie Randall made several albums in the middle 60s with backings provided by Billy May, Marty Paich, Manny Albam and others of the same calibre, so Frankie has always moved in the right circles! I do not have all Sinatra’s recordings on CD, so this album was a welcome addition for my listening pleasure. Paul ClatworthyThis CD is distributed by Beverly Hills Records Inc., PO Box 3216, Beverley Hills, CA 90212, USA – telephone 818 788 0215. In Britain it is imported by Montpellier Records and other specialist dealers.

All The Rage: Mandolin Ensemble Music from 1897-1924The Boston Ideal March, Laughing Eyes, La Tipica Dance of the Lunatics ,The Flying Wedge, Gloriana, All the Rage, Estudiantina, My Heart At Thy Sweet Voice, Sweet Corn, Texas Fox Trot, Silver Ripples, Gallantry, Fieldston March.Nashville Mandolin Ensemble Conducted by Paul Martin Zonn. (USA)New World Records 80544–2. Those of you who enjoy the music of Troise and his Mandoliers or recall the Eberfield Mandolin Orchestra will find this CD a suitable companion. This ensemble is similar in size to that of Troise. Most of the items will probably be unfamiliar to most members, apart from one or two titles such as Estudiantina by Waldteufel and My Heart At Thy Sweet Voice by Saint Saens. The CD also features an arrangement of a lesser known piece by Ketelby called Gallantry. The ensemble produce a rich mellow sound, at times not unlike that of Troise. Some tracks feature a violin, guitar or accordion in addition to the mandolins, mandolas, etc. Tracks range from novelty items, ragtime, foxtrots, marches to light clasics. The recording quality is good. The CD can be obtained from specialist import dealers or via the internet at www.Amazon.Com (classical wing); or you can order direct from the Ensemble's website at www.soundartrecordings.com/alltherage.htm where other mandolin recordings are featured. Beware, not all the CDs listed on the website are light music recordings. However this one is. Brian Stringer

REPRISE MUSICAL REPERTORY THEATRE: 4 Disc Set Finian’s Rainbow 38:34, Kiss Me Kate38:10, South Pacific 48:29, Guys and Dolls 33:07mins. Performed by The Hi-Lo’s, Rosemary Clooney, Dean Martin, Bing Crosby, Debbie Reynolds, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Mary Kaye Trio, Lou Monte, McGuire Sisiters, Clark Dennis, Jo Stafford, Dinah Shore, Clark Dennis, Allan Sherman, Johnny Prophet, Phyllis McGuire, Keely Smith. Arranged by Nelson Riddle, Billy May, Skip Martin, Marty Paitch, Bill Loose, Warren Barker, Gene Puerling, Nathan Van Cleave, Jerry Fielding, George Rhodes, Ralph Smale, George Duning, Herb Spencer. Musical Direction by Morris Stoloff (USA) Reprise Records 2-47775. Why, I was asked, would you want to buy these versions, when you can get the Original Broadway Cast albums? The answer is to be found in David Finkle’s sleeve notes for this handsomely packaged box set that was released by Reprise Records in late 2001. Produced by Sinatra himself, it first appeared in 1963 on what was then his own label. ‘What Sinatra wanted….. was not to replicate original cast albums…. He was looking for something else. He wanted some of the best singers to put across in their inimitable ways some of the best songs ever written, and he wanted them all set forth in the best arrangements that knock-out arrangers …… could conjure’. Not only do the credits speak for themselves, but also a magnificent swing orchestra with a large string section accompanies the whole production. That early 60s stereo sound, with its exceptionally clear mix-down, is blissfully evident. Twice issued on LP over the years, it’s good to get the set on CD at last. ‘Guys and Dolls’, arguably the most successful of the four, was the only album reissued separately on CD until now. British purchasers will at last be able to read the sleeve notes for each album because they are included in the booklet. These were originally printed on foldout covers issued in the USA and Australian markets. All the albums have bright Overtures, and, true to the name of the label, there’s always a reprise by Sinatra in duet for the standout number from each show. This gives Riddle, Paitch and Van Cleave the challenge of writing a second arrangement, which they all produce effortlessly. Recommended if you like the full, over the top Hollywood sound, but definitely not for the purists. I found the existence of this album on the Reprise website, but had trouble tracking down retail outlets, as it doesn’t appear in major online catalogues. So you may have to shop around, as prices are varied when you do find suppliers through, for example, www.gemm.com. Expect to pay around US$40 for the set. Richard Hindley

KENNETH ALFORD, MASTER OF MILITARY MUSICBy Land and Sea, Cavalry of the Clouds, Colonel Bogey, Dunedin, Eagle Squadron, H.M. Jollies, The Voice of the Guns, The Thin Red Line, The Standard of St. George, The Middy, Great Little Army, On the Quarterdeck, Colonel Bogey on Parade [Alford]; Dance in the Twilight [E. Coates], Lilliburlero, A Life on the Ocean Wave [arr. Alford]; Fanfare, The Royal Tounament [Vivian Dunn]; Out of the Blue [H. Bath]; In Party Mood [J. Strachey].Bands/conductors unspecified but mostly conducted by Alford. Alford [1881-1945], whose real name was Frederick Joseph Ricketts, was indisputably Britain’s "March King", although not everyone realizes that his reputation is based on just 18 military marches [Sousa composed many times that number], plus a few non-march pieces and many arrangements. Twelve of the eighteen are on this vintage CD, plus Alford’s march potpourri Colonel Bogey on Parade, other arrangements of his and one or two more or less appropriate "fillers" by others. Disappointingly, the bands playing are not listed [in view of this issue’s considerable historical importance, they should have been] but we can safely assume that most tracks are by the Royal Marines [Plymouth Division] Band, conducted by Alford himself, who play with great spirit. The recordings, some of which go back to the 1920s, have been well transferred. Philip L Scowcroft CD CMM [Tape TMM] available from This England, PO Box 52, Cheltenham, GL50 1YQ for £8.95 [£7.50] including p&p.

SONGS MY FATHER TAUGHT ME Passing By [E Purcell]; The Lark in the Clear Air [arr. P Tate]; My Dearest Heart, The Lost Chord [Sullivan], Until [W Sanderson]; Drink to Me Only [arr. Quilter]; Love’s Garden of Roses, It is Only a Tiny Garden, A Brown Bird Singing, Bird of Love Divine [Haydn Wood]; Love Could I Only Tell Thee [J M Caple]; A Mood [Alison Travers]; Smilin’ Through [A Penn]; The Holy City [Adams]; The Cheviot Hills [Jack Robson]; On the Banks of the Wabash [P Dresser]; She is Far from the Land, God’s Garden [Frank Lambert]; In Summertime on Bredon [G Peel]; The Trumpeter [Diss]; Tell the Boys Come Home [Novello]; Trees [Rasbach]; The Old House [F O’Connor]; Bird Songs at Eventide [Coates]; I’ll Walk Beside You [A Murray] Sir Thomas Allen[baritone], Malcolm Martineau [piano]Hyperion CD 67290. This most enjoyable disc contains, seemingly, most of the ballads everyone knows – from the 1870s to the 1930s – and a few others besides. Two [Trees and Banks of the Wabash], perhaps three [Smilin’ Through] are American, the rest British. Frank Lambert is little heard nowadays but his two examples are well worth listening to; and Geordie composer Jack Robson’s Cheviot Hills is shapely, too. Graham Peel’s fluent Bredon was in its day as popular as the settings of Butterworth and Vaughan Williams, while the four Haydn Wood examples remind us what a fine writer for the voice he was. We have had several good CD ballad releases of recent years, but Sir Thomas, gloriously even in tone and sensitive in interpretation, sings these songs as well if not better than most. Malcolm Martineau is a sympathetic accompanist. The recording is excellent and I cannot imagine the disc failing to give pleasure. Philip L ScowcroftAll Hyperion CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.

NELSON RIDDLE: Route 66 and other Great TV Themes The Alvin Show, Andy Griffith, Ben Casey, My Three Sons, The Untouchables, Naked City, Sing Along, The Defenders, Sam Benedict, Dr. Kildare, This Could be the Start of Something More Hit TV ThemesBeverly Hillbillies, Bonanza, Andy Williams, Stoney Burke, McHale’s Navy, Dickens and Fenster, Supercar, Have Gun Will Travel, Lucy Show, Laurence Welk, New Naked City Theme, Dick Van Dyke EMI Capitol 7243 5384132, 55:54 mins. This superb CD brings together two classic collectable LPs from 1962 and 1963 respectively. Most of the themes are recognisable, with the exception of a few American TV shows unknown in Britain. The sound quality on these arrangements is faultless as one would expect from EMI. The booklet reproduces thr fornt and back covers from both LPs, but no recording dates are given. To any collector of TV themes this CD is highly recommended. John R. Forster

PHINEAS NEWBORN Jr. (piano) with Dennis Farnon and his Orchestra ‘While My Lady Sleeps’ Moonlight in Vermont, Don’t You Know I Care, Lazy Mood, I’m Old Fashioned, Black in the Colour of my True Love’s Hair, While My Lady Sleeps, It’s Easy to Remember, Bali Ha’I, If I Should Lose You (France) BMG – RCA Victor Gold series 7432 1851572 (CD reissue of RCA Victor LP LPM-1474 recorded 1957). Dennis Farnon and George Shearing collaborated on the arrangements for Shearing’s Capitol album "Velvet Carpet", but he gets full control of this beautiful reissue. The French seem to have a knack of discovering gems such as this, whereas the parent record companies seem content to let them gather dust! There were so many orchestral albums around when this saw light of day, but not many people of my age could afford them all. I am not even sure if it reached England at the time, so I am more than grateful for the chance to catch up with what I missed the first time around. Congratulations to producer Daniel Baumgarten who is obviously a man of taste! Reviewer Alex Dutith states that it’s one of the few dazzling examples of ‘jazz with strings’ – an observation I fully endorse! The first shimmer of delectable strings on the opening number announces you are in Farnon country. The late Stan Roderick summed it up with the words "Isn’t it lovely up on this cloud?" Newborn was busy touring when the album was being set up so Dennis wrote all the sparkling charts without any input from Newborn until the actual recording. The album is a must for every member of our Society. Paul Clatworthy

PATTY CLARK ‘I Love You’ I Love You, You Go To My Head, So Many Stars, I Get Along Without You Very Well, I Didn’t Know What Time It Was, Don’t Get Around Much Anymore, They All Laughed, I Wonder, I Remember You/Nearness Of You, I See Your Face Before Me, Meditation, My Funny Valentine, Lover Come Back To Me, Good Morning Heartache, Don’t Worry ‘Bout Me.(USA) Mainstem MSTCD 0025. The name Patty Clark will not be familiar to many, but in the States she had a successful singing career with her own Radio and TV programmes on NBC, she appeared with Bob Hope and did a successful season with Johnny Desmond on CBS with the revived "Glenn Miller Show". All of which garnered critical acclaim, so it was surprising that she retired from the music scene for many years following her marriage to impresario Tony Fantozzi.About 18 months ago she decided to return to the Studio ,not just any studio but the prestigious Capitol studio in Hollywood, with a 55 piece Orchestra arranged and conducted by Lou Forestieri and including some jazz soloists Gary Foster (tenor), Doug Webb (soprano) and Bob McChesney (trombone).The result is an extremely polished collection of fine standards sung with an assured mature voice; the arrangements are a nice balance of string settings and small jazz group backings to full blown big-band charts. Clearly Patty is no stranger to this material, the experience shows through.Her rendering of "Good Morning Heartache" as a straight ballad, without the "angst" of other singers, makes it sound fresh and new.There’s a nice coupling of "I Remember You" and "The Nearness of You" which go together quite seamlessly.We seem to have an abundance of girl singers to-day, but few who can match Patty Clark’s interpretations from the standard songbook repertoire.This a welcome release that will not disappoint those who like good songs well sung without affectation, to some excellent backings. All expertly engineered by the legendary Al Schmit.Seek it out next time you’re browsing in your local record shop. Footnote - Patty Clark hails from North Dakota at the age of 17 she was singed up by the local NBC radio station in Fargo and they changed her name from Patricia Larson. It was the same radio station that has some years earlier changed the name of a certain Norma Engstrom to Peggy Lee. Albert Killman

"THE FOUNDERS" Recordings for the Silver Jubilee of the International Military Music SocietyDrum Salute, The Founders (L. Cullen); Plymouth Hoe (John Ansell); Bugle March, HMS Ocean (R.A. Waterer); Dance Movement (P. Sparke); Baroque ‘N’ Roll (K. Peers); Overture, Colas Breygnon (Kabalevsky); Pavan, Sicut Aquilae (R. Wiffin); Lover (arr. Martindale); Spitfire Prelude (William Walton); Staffordshire Yeomanry March (Geoffrey Kingston); Duke of Cambridge March 9Malcolm Arnold); Triumphale (Pascuzzi); March, Coronation Bells (Partridge); Evening Hymn and Last Post (arr. R. Tulip). History of Military Music RM Plymouth, RAF Central and RE/REME bands conducted by Richard Waterer, Robert Wiffin and Geoffrey Kingston Chevron CHVCD12. The Silver Jubilee of the International Military Music Society is worthily celebrated with a fascinating book‘Sound The Trumpets, Beat The Drums’ (which includes a chapter on Military Bands on Radio by RFS member Brian Reynolds), and by this CD in four parts: specially recorded contributions representing all three services, and a potted history of military music with brief recorded illustrations. Each of the present service music chiefs, Wiffin (RAF), Waterer (Royal Marines) and Kingston (Army) is represented by a composition showing that good military music is still being written, aqs may be seen also from Sparke’s Dance Movement and Pascuzzi’s Triumphale, both brightly scored, not to mention the more overtly popular arrangements. The Walton was an obvious choice for the RAF;Plymouth Hoe for the Marines; while the Arnold (written for Kneller Hall’s centenary in 1957) and Partridge marches are both stirring ones – for some IMMS members marches are the only military band music! Performances match the occasion. Philip Scowcroft See page 82 of our last issue for details of how to obtain Chevron CDs.

INSPIRATIONS OF LONDON Theme from Shaft, Dreaming Eyes, Keep Off, Sweet Honey Honey, Moon Over Moscow, New Paradise, Bloody Border, Sylvester’s Party, Wenn der Tag zu ende Geht, Clairons and Clairettes, Chrysan Theme, Hurricane, City Sound, Freezing, Ambros High Life, Cloudy Day, Four Friends, Soley Soley, Relax, Inspirations of London Ambros Seelos Orchestra Teleplay Music TPM 1001. Here are 20 golden tracks from the 1970s featuring a big band from Germany and its soloists performing some great instrumentals. This album features 20 great tracks featuring the big band and orchestral sounds of the renowned Ambros Seelos Orchestra. All recordings were made in the 1970's and 15 of the tracks regularly accompanied BBC Television's Test Card in the UK between 1972 and 1978. Musicians featured on the recordings include Horst Michalke, Ed Sperber, Ian Fenby, Georges Delagaye and, of course, Ambros Seelos. This CD has been compiled with care and a great deal of thought has gone into its balance of musical styles. Because this is not just a big band CD where you hear the first couple of tracks and know the rest of the CD is going to be the same. This is a CD of variety. Some tracks are instantly familiar, but others will be new to you; each track is an instrumental masterpiece which will delight all the fans of melodic tuneful big band music of the 70s era. Malcolm Batchelor This CD has been produced by Andrew Evans, and he has offered to supply it to fellow RFS members at a special price of £10 inclusive of postage and packing. Cheques or postal orders (sterling only) should be in favour of ‘Teleplay Music’ and sent to Teleplay Music, 16 Gadsby Avenue, Wolverhampton, WV11 3EH. Credit card orders can be placed via the website: www.teleplaymusic.co.uk – price $16.

FRANZ LEHAR Fata Morgana (Gypsy Feast), Suite de Danse, Chinese Ballet Suite & Character Dances from ‘Peter and Paul in Cockaigne’. Radio Sinfonieorchester Berlin cond. by Michail Jurowski CPO 999761-2. For lovers of light music – and that, of course, goes for all readers of this magazine – may I wholeheartedly recommend this CD. It consists of 19 tracks of brilliant, tuneful, catchy and unfamiliar orchestral music by Franz Lehar. Apart from a short snatch of music fromZigeunerliebe in the first track, I’ve never heard any of the pieces before. To paraphrase David Mellor’s Classic FM Sunday programme, "If you liked that you’ll like this". Ken Wilkins Editor: the Vocalion CD of music by Franz Lehar, reviewed by John Govier in our last issue (page 79), has been warmly received by RFS members. Another recent CPO CD offers a 1939 Radio Concert from Saarbrüchen conducted by Franz Lehar, featuring some of his songs as well as orchestral works (CPO 999 781-2). CPO CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.

BRITISH LIGHT MUSIC CLASSICS Volume 4 Marching Strings (Ray Martin); Jaunting Car (Peter Hope); High Heels (Trevor Duncan); Dance of an Ostracised Imp (Frederic Curzon); Keltic Lament (John Foulds); Rhythm on Rails, A Quiet Stroll (Charles Williams); By the Sleepy Lagoon (Eric Coates); Jamaican Rumba (Arthur Benjamin); In a Monastery Garden (Albert W. Ketèlbey); Demoiselle Chic (Percy Fletcher); Cavalcade of Youth (Jack Beaver); Elizabethan Masque (Frederic Bayco); Shepherd Fennel’s Dance (Henry Balfour Gardiner); Thrills (Charles Ancliffe); The Doge’s March (Frederick Rosse); Petite Suite de Concert (Samuel Coleridge-Taylor) The New London Orchestra conducted by Ronald Corp Hyperion CDA67400, total timing 77:53 minutes. We are greatly indebted to both Hyperion and Ronald Corp for the (hopefully) continuing series of British Light Music Classics, with its targeted emphasis on vintage Light Music ranging from about the 1890s to the early 1960s – a period when melody and rhythmic verve was at its most intense and infectious. Whilst inevitably in such a generous compilation some duplication with contemporary modern recordings is unavoidable, and pieces such as By the Sleepy Lagoon and In a Monastery Garden are doubtless included to make the CD more commercial, there is plenty of evidence of some imaginative programme planning and an impressive knowledge of Light Music repertoire. An excellent curtain-raiser is Ray Martin’s Marching Strings, played with plenty of verve and panache. Particularly welcome are the two Charles Williams miniatures, particularly the charmingly joyful and jaunty A Quiet Stroll. New to this listener was John Foulds’ haunting beautiful Keltic Lament, and remembered from the distant days of childhood Charles Ancliffe’s fine waltz Thrills (staple fare, no doubt, in programmes such as ‘Those Were The Days’) and the Doges March by Frederick Rosse, of which my father possessed a 78 record. Jack Beaver’s Cavalcade of Youth – used as the signature tune of ‘The Barlows of Beddington’ – also made one wistfully nostalgic. Also welcome is a completePetite Suite de Concert in a recording distinctly superior to the Marco Polo alternative (8.223516) with the Dublin RTE Concert Orchestra conducted by Adrian Leaper. Technically the recording (even by Hyperion’s high standards) is quite superlative with ample range, depth and amplitude, with many inner details and ‘effects’ being revealed – often hidden or obscured in earlier historic recordings. One cannot imagine this disc not being an automatic ‘must have’ amongst light music enthusiasts and hopefully the better known pieces will attract a wider currency amongst the general public. Anyway it’s up to all of us to encourage Hyperion and Ronald Corp to keep up their good work. As Andrew Lamb says in his informative notes to this fourth volume dip into the well of British Light Music Classics, the source is as fresh and sparkling as ever! Roger Hyslop

Unless I’m mistaken, nine of these pieces appear as first-time modern digital recordings. Anyway, here come the Marching Strings, fresh as ever (what a good opener they always make) and Jack Beaver’s uplifting Cavalcade of Youth; here also is Elizabethan Masque, rather unexpected and all the more welcome for that. Ketèlbey’s ‘monks’ sound really authentic (period performance!), and though less brisk than the composer’s version Rhythm on Rails gave me a pleasingly smooth ride. Many moons ago Charles Ancliffe was constrained to squeeze as much of Thrills as he could on to a 10" 78 side; complete with introduction, all repeats and coda it now gets the full treatment. So too doesPetite Suite de Concert, and its third movement Un Sonnet d’Amour is given as sensitive an account as any that I know. All in all, this is an excellent release which will hopefully make many more friends for our wonderful World of Light Music. John E. Govier Hyperion CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £12 [US $24] each.

PAUL LEWIS Three Decades of TV Themes The Prisoner of Zenda, Autumn Love, Brendon Chase, Arthur of the Britons, The Big Knife, King’s Royal, The Dark Angel, The Benny Hill Waltz, The Island, Woof!, Wreckers at Deadeye The Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Paul LewisCampion CAMEO 2018, 76:13 mins. At long last here is a CD which attempts to do justice to Paul Lewis’s work for British television. I say ‘attempts’, because incredibly he has been responsible for over 130 TV scores, so there is a vast body of his work still waiting to be rediscovered. But this new CD makes a fine start, and the swashbuckling opening from the 1984 "Prisoner of Zenda" (BBC TV) is in the finest Hollywood tradition. Autumn Love was originally in the Chappell Recorded Music Library, but its tender qualities were noticed in 1973 when it was chosen for the Thames TV series "Spring and Autumn". Subsequently it was arranged by Ray Martin for commercial LP release, and the Chappell version also appeared in Grasmere’s third album of famous themes. Paul knows how to write a catchy theme, and "Brendon Chase" certainly falls into this category. An RCA EP of the music sold 5,000 copies back in the 1980s. "Arthur of the Britons" (HTV 1972) is perhaps the major suite in this collection, with an impressive opening and plenty of tender (and exciting!) themes in the rest of the work. "The Big Knife" (HTV 1989) is sub-titled Romance for Piano and Strings and one can imagine it filling both sides of a Columbia 78 back in the late 1940s. "King’s Royal" (BBC 1981-82) has a very strong theme in the finest tradition of descriptive writing. "The Dark Angel" (BBC 1990) is another substantial work which the composer describes as A Gothic Melodrama for Orchestra. In complete contrast comes The Benny Hill Waltz, which is actually a movement called Ballroom from Paul’s collection "History Book of Music"; the change of title reflects the use of this piece (speeded-up) in many Benny Hill shows. "The Island" (HTV 1976) features soprano and orchestra; the producer had asked for a Laura-type piece, but understandably Paul felt some reluctance to copy that most famous of all film themes. The result is a melody employing vocalise (wordless) for soprano and orchestra – the listener can judge whether or not the producer had his wish granted. "Woof!" has to be Paul’s most famous TV theme. Although written for an ITV children’s programme, it achieved audience figures above six million, and has been shown in over 64 countries. Tommy Reilly originally played harmonica in the small Carlton TV orchestra (the Paul Lewis Woof Band), to be followed by James Hughes from series eight. Even if you have never seen the TV show, you cannot fail to be swept along by the sheer fun and exuberance of the music. In this Fantasy Paul has combined several of the themes he used during the series, but over the nine years he wrote many catchy little interludes for all of the main characters. Finally this delightful collection comes to an end with "Wreckers at Deadeye" (Thames 1970) – to quote the composer’s words "…a rip-roaring yarn of smugglers and shipwreckers." He has certainly captured it all in his music. The CD is accompanied by an excellent booklet (mostly written by Paul), generously filled with photographs. Campion is to be congratulated for including this highly entertaining CD in their ‘British Composers series’. This CD should be in the collection of everyone who enjoys expertly crafted light orchestral music. It is simply an absolute joy from start to finish. David Ades Campion CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £12 [US $24} each.

BRITISH STRING MINIATURES Volume One Divertimento (Gareth Walters); Elegy (Edward Elgar); Suite (Michael Roberts); Two Aquarelles (Frederick Delius); Fiddler’s Green (Anthony Hedges); Two Pieces from Henry V (William Walton); Partita (John Addison). Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland. ASV Whiteline WHL 2134, 71:37 mins. If you enjoyed producer Philip Lane’s four English String Miniatures sequence on Naxos then you will enjoy his new four-part series on ASV which mixes the familiar with the less well-known, no bad thing. Gareth Walters is Welsh and his five-part Divertimento is based on national folk tunes. Michael Roberts came from Blackburn in Lancashire and worked for the BBC before going freelance, parts of his excellent five-movement Suite being used as television theme tunes. Anthony Hedges has long been associated with Hull University and all four movements of Fiddler’s Green relate to places of musical jollity which sailors enjoyed while ashore. John Addison was educated at Wellington College and wrote for both the concert hall and cinema while Elgar, Walton and Delius need no further introduction. Edmund Whitehouse

Adventurous music-lovers who relish the bite, darkness, delicacy, light, sweep, tenderness, etc. etc. of well-made string compositions are unlikely to complain of this! Neither frivolous nor brow-furrowing, the seven works all add up to a pleasing, nicely contrasted programme. A short Elgar work and "tandem" pieces by Delius/Fenby and Walton balance the others. Gareth Walters and the late Michael Roberts and John Addison are represented by five-movement works (the Roberts was assembled from music written in 1962, ’65 and ’71). The newest work, dating from last year, is by Anthony Hedges – living up to the promise of its title. Full-toned playing and recording: try a lowish volume setting for comfort! It appears that more may be looked forward to. John E. Govier

MATTHEW CURTIS Fiesta, Amsterdam Suite, Pas de Deux, Paths to Urbino, Two Pieces for Small Orchestra, Outward Bound Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland Campion CAMEO 2015, 77:18 mins. I must confess to not having been aware of the music of Matthew Curtis previously, but how grateful I am that this gap in my musical knowledge has finally been filled by this splendid new CD from Campion in their ‘British Composers Series’. The accompanying booklet informs us that he hails from Embleton in Cumbria, and that much of his music has been taken up by non-professional and youth orchestras in Britain and overseas. He composes in a pleasing style that is instantly accessible, yet full of delightful orchestral colouring that will provide enhanced enjoyment with repeated listenings. How good it is that young composers (Matthew was born in 1959) are still writing what can be described as ‘traditional’ light music, although he himself seems to suggest that he regards it more as contemporary classical that can appeal to performers and audiences alike. Labels can be misleading: suffice it to say that anyone who enjoys the kind of light music championed by Eric Coates and Haydn Wood will find much to please them here. I look forward to hearing more of his music in the future. David Ades

‘Something Here’ – The Film and Television Music of DEBBIE WISEMAN Wilde, Hans Christian Andersen, Before You Go, Tom & Viv, Judge John Deed, Warriors, My Uncle Silas, Simon – an English Legionnaire, Tom’s Midnight Garden, Haunted, Othello, The Ugly Duckling Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Debbie Wiseman Silva Screen SILKD6035, 71:19 mins. As Debbie herself explains in the booklet, the album’s title "Something here" refers to the familiar comment from directors showing their film to a composer, indicating that some music is needed at a particular point. This collection brings together some of her memorable scores for film and TV, the earliest being "Tom & Viv" (1994) which tells of the tumultuous marriage of poet T.S. Eliot to his first wife, and no less than four from 2002, of which the major work has to be Debbie’s setting of "The Ugly Duckling", narrated by Nigel Havers in his usual suave manner. Perhaps parts of this fairy tale might be a bit frightening to very young children, but it serves as an extremely useful way to get youngsters interested in the manner in which orchestral music can tell a story – especially when the writing is as accomplished as this. Whenever the name ‘Debbie Wiseman’ appears on the credits for a film or television production, you know that the music will perfectly suit the situation on screen. Perhaps she has had rather a lot of serious subjects to date (and she can certainly tear at your heartstrings!), but the music for "Hans Christian Andersen" and "My Uncle Silas" reveal her lighter nature. She is such a petite, happy and bubbly person in real life that it is difficult to imagine her writing some of the serious works her directors demand, let alone control the full forces of a large symphony orchestra. What a formidable talent she is! One day she will get an Oscar for the best score for a major Hollywood film; why it hasn’t happened already, is Hollywood’s loss. Until the film capital of the world wakes up and finally takes notice, we in Britain can be sure that our films and television will continue to benefit from her superlative scores. David Ades

The Film Music of RALPH VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Volume 1 Scott of the Antarctic, Coastal Command, The People’s Land BBC Philharmonic conducted by Rumon Gamba Chandos CHAN 10007, 78:30 mins. Chandos is gradually building up an impressive library of film music, and it is good to note that this latest CD has been labelled ‘Volume 1’, indicating that there are more treats to follow from this great composer. Because he has been so lauded for his symphonies, Vaughan Williams’ work for the British cinema has tended to be somewhat neglected, but on its own it stands as a fine testimony to his gifts as a descriptive writer. It is well-known that his score for "Scott of the Antarctic" provided the basis for his Symphony No. 7 – "Sinfonia Antartica" – and some critics over the years have suggested that the symphony was in some ways less satisfying than the film music. Perhaps this is surprising, because less than half of the score that VW provided for the film was actually used by the producers, so this CD, which offers the premiere recording of the full version, provides the first opportunity for some of it to be heard. "Coastal Command" was a wartime documentary made by the Crown Film Unit in 1942, while "The People’s Land" described the work of the National Trust and was shot in colour in 1943 (surprisingly in view of the scarcity of film stock at that time). The BBC Philharmonic and Rumon Gamba are definitely in sympathy with film music, as their previous CDs have proved, and this latest one is no exception. The booklet is generously illustrated with film stills (but not from "The People’s Land"), and anyone interested in British film music should immediately add this to their collection. David Ades

NELSON RIDDLE: ‘The Unreleased Nelson – Part 1’ RADIO TRANSCRIPTIONS Isle of May, Till the End of Time, Our Love, Moon Love, The Lamp is Low, Full Moon and Empty Arms, In the Hush of Night, Yours and Mine, Yours is my Heart Alone (You Are my Heart’s Delight), My Reverie; HEY DIDDLE RIDDLE The Farmer in the Dell, Row Your Boat, Oh Dear What Can the Matter Be, The Muffin Man, Little Bo Peep, London Bridge, Tom Tom the Piper’s Son, Polly Put the Kettle On, Three Blind Mice, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Hickory Dickory Dock NELSON RIDDLE APPRECIATION SOCIETY NNCD003. Alan Wright is doing a wonderful job keeping alive the glorious music of Nelson Riddle. Not only does he produce the regular newsletter "Nelson’s Notes", but he has also arranged for members of the NRAS to obtain rare recordings by Nelson that are unobtainable elsewhere. Alan has kindly allowed us to give details of his latest release which contains two batches of traditional tunes, arranged in the unique Riddle manner, that have not previously been released anywhere. The first ten tracks (all classical works) are transcriptions recorded late in 1953 for use by radio stations. "Hey Diddle Riddle" dates from October to December 1959, and is believed to be for a projected album that didn’t eventually proceed. Anyone interested in Riddle’s work will find this CD fascinating, and it is an essential purchase for those wishing to have a complete Nelson Riddle collection. Audio restoration was in the hands of Alan Bunting, so you’ll know that it is of a very high quality. David Ades

This is available only as a private CD through a £10 (incl. p & p) donation to the Nelson Riddle Appreciation Society, 4 Jardine Cottages, Templewood Lane, Stoke Poges, Bucks, SL2 4BQ, England. Please mention the RFS when ordering; cheques should be payable to ‘The Nelson Riddle Appreciation Society’.

ABC RADIO THEMES : CLASSIC THEMES FROM POPULAR ABC RADIO PROGRAMMES – (Australia) ABC CLASSICS 472446-2. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation has recently released this CD containing twenty tracks of a variety of radio themes heard over the years. Many of the themes of current programmes included are classical pieces from such composers as Respighi, Charpentier, Beethoven and Mozart. These themes have become much loved over the years. The older programme themes include 'Pastorale' by Ronald Hanmer, once used as the theme to the serial 'Blue Hills'; 'Old Mother Hubbard' by Cecil Fraser from 'The Argonauts'; Clive Richardson's 'Melody on the Move' from the 'Hospital Half Hour' and the Merrymakers' Dance by Edward German once used as the theme to the ‘Country Hour’. There are also two versions of 'Majestic Fanfare' by Charles Williams. The last nineteen seconds of this has been used as the ABC Radio News Theme for about fifty years. Also included is 'Olympia Australia' by the Australian composer Sean O'Boyle. This stirring and descriptive piece was used as the theme to the Sydney Olympics and more recently the Manchester Commonwealth Games. All told a good selection for regular ABC listeners and those who like theme music. Barry Freeman

FRANK BRIDGE Orchestral Works Vol. 2 Dance Rhapsody, Five Entr’actes, Dance Poem, Norse Legend, The Sea Chandos CHAN 10012, 72:37 minutes. When one considers how attractive this music is, it is surprising that this is the only cycle of Bridge’s music ever undertaken. The opening work Dance Rhapsody (this is the premiere recording in this version) is an attractive piece which Bridge first conducted to considerable critical acclaim in 1908. It enjoyed several more performances until 1918, after which it lay forgotten until 1938. It disappeared once more, until 1977, which probably says more about our musical establishment than the quality of the work itself. I find it enchanting, and I shall listen to it on many future occasions. The Sea is regarded as Bridge’s most successful orchestral work and (like a certain Canadian composer some years later) he chose to get his inspiration from the south coast of England. Frank Bridge (1879-1941) deserves to have his work remembered and enjoyed, and this collection could well provide some very pleasant surprises for music lovers who are currently unfamiliar with his achievements. David Ades

ELGAR The Wand of Youth Suites 1 & 2, Three Bavarian Dances, Polonia, Triumphal March [Carcatacus], Meditation [The Light of Life] – LPO, conducted by Sir Adrian Boult – EMI Classics CDZ 5 75295-2.74 mins. A warm welcome back to the catalogue for an old friend, Sir Adrian Boult’s peerless performances of these wistful suites and enchanting dances. Here is light music of consummate excellence. It’s difficult to believe these classic and sensitive performances will ever be surpassed. I have treasured the original HMV LP [ASD 2356] for many years and it’s a particular joy to have these recordings, sounding newly minted and mercifully liberated from the inevitable "snap, crackle and pop", on CD. The attractions of this issue are further enhanced by some generous fill-ups: Polonia [a fantasia on Polish national airs dedicated to Ignaz Paderewski, and with organ judiciously added to bring the piece to a suitably grandioso conclusion], the stirring March, and the oratorio Meditation. With generous playing time, budget price and indisputably three-star performances this disc is self-recommending. Roger Hyslop

LES PAUL and Mary Ford ‘How High The Moon’ Title track, Just Because, Blue Skies, Dark Eyes, It’s Been a Long Long Time (with Bing Crosby), Rumours are Flying (with Andrews Sisters), Lover, Brazil, Nola, Goofus, Little Rock Getaway, La Rosita, Whispering, The World is Waiting for the Sunrise, etc… 30 tracks ASV Living Era CD AJA 5438, 77:08 mins. There can be few collectors of popular music around 50 years ago who did not have at least one Les Paul 78 in their collection. So for many of us, this new compilation is a welcome reminder of his considerable talents as a guitar player who, technically, was years ahead of his time. It is incredible that he achieved such astonishing results from the primitive recording equipment available in the late 1940s. I seem to recall reading that his multi-track records were often made at home in his bathroom, and that he kept the precise way he did it a closely guarded secret. Eight-track mixers have been mentioned, presumably linked to early tape recorders (the CD booklet notes briefly talk about ‘LP overdubbing’ – but surely this would have resulted in a build-up of unacceptable surface noise). Les Paul’s wife Mary Ford sings (also multi-tracked) on nine of the songs, and all of their big hits (up to 1951) seem to be here. It is great to be able to enjoy these unique recordings again. David Ades

MUSIC FROM THE MOVIES The Thirties Music from the Movies; 1936 Medley; Goldwyn Follies selection; Jungle of the Jungle; Hollywood Hotel selection; The Wizard of Oz selection; The Eyes of the World Are Upon You; The Great Ziegfeld selection; Empire Builders; Gold Diggers of 1937 selection; I Haven’t Time To Be a Millionaire; On the Avenue selection; Everybody Dance; Babes in Arms selection; There’s That Look In Your Eyes Again; Music from the Movies 1938 Medley. Louis Levy & his Gaumont British Symphony. ASV Living Era CD AJA 5445, 76:40 mins. Ever wondered how David Ades spends his spare time? He never has any and this impressive selection of 1930s movie music is yet another product of his fertile imagination and personal record collection. Louis Levy certainly comes under the guise of dance band leader but he was much more than that, being the major pre-war musical voice of the cinema. The luscious sleeve depicts the opening of the Gaumont State Cinema in Kilburn, North London, and the opening march Music from the Movies will be instantly recognisable to all who used to go the flicks when it was not unusual for there to be 2,000 other people present, more than many of today’s professional football club crowds! Singers on the disc include Sam Browne, Gerry Fitzgerald, Janet Lind, Robert Ashley, Hazel Jean, Edward Molloy and Eve Becke. If you were a moviegoer then you will know what to expect but if not then sit back and imagine what it must have been like when the only screen to watch was a big one, which most families visited at least once a week. Edmund Whitehouse

I must comment on the superb sound of this CD. The soaring strings, wandering all over the place, are warmly supported by the full, rich sound of the brass which often carries the main melody. And the singers sound so clear. Alan Bunting has done a wonderful job restoring these ancient 78s. I have other Louis Levy albums in my collection, but they don’t sound as good as this. Raymond Wood Editor: I am very pleased that members have appreciated the efforts made by Alan on this CD. Some of the tracks I transferred for him were edited from up to three different 78s to get the best results we could, and I have to say (with suitable modesty) that I think the extra trouble we took was worth it.

‘POPS ROUNDUP’ - BOSTON POPS ORCHESTRA conducted by ARTHUR FIEDLER.Pops Roundup; Home On the Range plus 16 other cowboy songs. 61:26. (USA) RCA Victor Living Stereo 09026-61666-2. Howdy, pardners! Time to get out your western gear and ride out onto the Plains with this time honoured classic. Arrangements are by Jack Mason and Richard Hayman. To set the tone, there's "Pops Roundup," a send-up of American TV westerns followed by a gunfight version of "O Bury Me Not On The Lone Prairie." There is a stunningly beautiful Jack Mason chart for "Home On The Range" which is treated with graceful dignity. Sons of the Pioneers admirers will find "Wagon Wheels" and "Tumbling Tumbleweeds" stunningly elegant. Tacked on at the end of this charming 1962 recording are 6 tracks from the 1967 follow-up album "Pops Goes West." It's hard to beat Richard Hayman's lush version of "Shenandoah" or his upbeat take of "High Noon." As with the earlier recording, the remastering is formidably life like with Richard Hayman playing his harmonica enthusiastically. A charming album from a great era for the Pops and Arthur Fiedler. RCA/BMG have a vast catalogue of Fiedler recordings including those of Chet Atkins and Kate Smith which are in desperate need of being released. How about it, guys? Richard Jessen

STANLEY BLACK, his Piano and Orchestra – Big Instrumental Hits Holiday for Strings, Ebb Tide, Patricia, Canadian Sunset, Delicado, 12th Street Rag, April in Portugal, Lullaby of Birdland, Harry Lime Theme, Blue Tango, Melody of Love, Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White Hollywood Love Themes It’s Magic,Love is a Many-Splendoured Thing, A Woman in Love, Tammy, Hold my Hand, Be My Love, Three Coins in the Fountain, True Love, Friendly Persuasion, Secret Love, Around the World, My Foolish Heart Vocalion CDLK4159, 69:50 mins. Here’s a real treat for Stanley Black fans, presenting the two familiar sides of the master pianist. On the first LP he is wearing his Latin-American sombrero as he treats a dozen instrumental favourites from the 1950s to a rhythmic treatment, often (but not exclusively) with a rich Latin touch - his sparkling piano assisted by pulsating percussion and a small-ish mainly string orchestra. For the full, lush Stanley Black sound of a concert piano, backed by a large light orchestra playing gorgeous arrangements, you can do no better than the second collection, focussed on film themes from the same era. Both albums were recorded in stereo at a time when the Decca sound engineers were considered to be the finest around. Michael Dutton has worked his usual magic on the original tapes, resulting in a superlative CD that will find its way into many stockings this Christmas. David Ades

FERDE GROFÉ Death Valley Suite (Funeral Mountains, 49er Emigrant Train, Desert Water Hole, Sand Storm), Hollywood Suite (On the Set Sweepers, The Stand-In, Carpenters and Electricians, Preview, Production Number, Director-Star-Ensemble), Hudson River Suite (The River, Henry Hudson, Rip Van Winkle, Albany Night Boat, New York!). Naxos 8.559017. Grofé was much more than just Paul Whiteman¹s arranger, he was a major composer in his own right whose works are deservedly now being reheard. This latest luscious offering is terrific value with never a dull moment as the busy tunes duck and dive through Hollywood film sets, deserts and rivers. For those already familiar with his orchestral colouring then there is no need to elaborate further but for those new to this genre then wait no longer because you will certainly not be disappointed. Peter Worsley

SPIKE JONES & HIS CITY SLICKERSCocktails for Two; McNamara’s Band; Glow Worm; Leave the Dishes in the Sink; Little Bo Peep Has Lost Her Jeep; Clink, Clink, Another Drink; You Always Hurt the One You Love; Sheik of Araby; William Tell; Der Fuehrer’s Face; Water Lou; Oh By Jingo; Mother Goose; Old McDonald; Hawaiian War Chant; Dance of the Hours; That Old Black Magic; Rhapsody from Hunger(y); Man on the Flying Trapeze; All I want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth; Jingle Bells. Evergreen Melodies EV83. Spike was a serious musician but enjoyed mucking about after hours when he added the sound of cow bells, whistles, saws, breaking glass, pistols and car horns. He even trained a goat to bleat in the key of C! When he released Der Fuehrer¹s Face in 1942 it came at just the right time to set his show business career off, literally with a bang! This selection of his very best are both memorable and amusing but equally clever in their musicianship which relied on perfect timing and brilliantly conceived vocals. After each live performance Spike would bow and say "Thank you music lovers" in a dead pan expression which never betrayed his inward feelings. Judge for yourself the brilliant histrionics of a truly "one off". CD and shorter cassette version are available only via mail order from Evergreen, PO Box 52, Cheltenham, GL50 1YQ, England – telephone 01242 515156. Edmund Whitehouse Editor: Spike Jones has been well served with recent CD releases. This new Evergreen collection joins around 20 compilations currently available, including a recent one from ASV - CDAJA5437. Robert Farnon’s eldest brother Brian worked with Spike Jones for many years.

ELIZABETHAN SERENADE – Classics of British Light Music Elizabethan Serenade (Ronald Binge); Knightsbridge March, The Man About Town, London Calling, Dancing Nights (Eric Coates); Chanson de Matin (Elgar); Lady O’Connell (Fredrick Ellard); In a Persian Market (Ketèlbey); Colonel Bogey (Kenneth Alford); Soldiers of the Queen (Leslie Stuart); 633 Squadron, The Barbican (Ron Goodwin); Warsaw Concerto (Richard Addinsell); Rememberance (Archibald Joyce); Pastorale (Ronald Hanmer); Music from ‘The Fool on the Hill’ ballet (Lennon, McCartney) (Australia) ABC Classics 472 509-2, 76:21 mins. This is a compilation of seventeen pieces previously released on CDs, or recorded for broadcast over the last few years. All but one of the tracks is performed by an Australian symphony orchestra, army band or small orchestra. The odd man out is Albert Ketèlbey’sIn a Persian Market played by the New Symphony Orchestra. The CD ends with two pieces from an Australian television ballet The Fool on the Hill which used music composed by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, arranged by John Lanchbery. I must admit that I do not think all the tracks fit into the category of ‘light music’, still it is nice to know that ABC Classics think so much of that type of music that they go to the trouble of releasing a CD of it. The CD comes with an attractive booklet containing an interesting article tracing the early history of ‘light’ and ‘mood’ music, and giving details of each piece and its Australian connection. Barry Freeman

MARLENE VERPLANCK ‘Speaking of Love’ But Not For Me, Blues in my Heart, It Was Written in the Stars, What Comes After the Rainbow, I Let a Song go out of my Heart, Listen to the Silence, Jamaica Rumba, Romance Medley, The Moment of Truth, A Christmas Love Song, What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve, Little Jazz Bird, Day-Dream, Nearer to your Love, Unless It’s You, My Love Went to London, Make Some Magic, The Singer, Speaking of Love, My Bluebird (USA) Audiophile ACD 320. "Listening to Marlene’s vocal performance on the CD Speaking of Love is as refreshing as a clear spring day. These are the sounds that will best serve the future of great popular music, and long may this mistress of song wait upon our admiration of her remarkable gifts. What a joy it must be to record with the wonderful lady." These words are Robert Farnon’s and quoted from the liner notes in praise of the CD; Johnny Mandel and Benny Carter also contribute words of praise. I think I read that this is Marlene’s seventeenth recording, not only is it superb but many regard it as her best ever. On it she demonstrates yet again what a wonderful lyrical singer she is and why fans and critics alike regard her as one of the finest interpreters of the American popular song, in the classic tradition performing today. Throughout her career she has always had taste and integrity in choosing which songs to sing, always paying loving care equally to well-known standards, sadly neglected ones, and new ones by fine composers. The repertoire on this CD of 22 songs date from Gershwins’ 1924 song "Little Jazz Bird" through to 2001, perhaps not too many well known standards, but a very good mix of excellent songs that many will be delighted to discover for the first time. Her musical accompaniment is always of the highest order and for this we have to thank her husband and musical partner Billy, a veteran of Charlie Spivak, and Tommy Dorsey bands for his musical direction. Not only was Billy responsible for all the arrangements on this CD but he contributed two original songs, and produced and conducted the recording session. For many years now the VerPlanks have been touring the UK every March and as a result built up a loyal band of enthusiastic fans. In this time she has had a long and fruitful association with the Roy Babbington, and here Roy provides the backing with his swinging trio, Roy on bass, Mark Fletcher drums and the dynamic and perhaps underrated pianist Geoff Eales who I was pleased to hear was given plenty of opportunity to shine. Just one more added bonus. On six of the tracks the trio is augmented with Big Band which Roy recruited from the cream of British session musicians. The closing track "My Bluebird" was written by Tommy Flanagan and here he accompanies Marlene to lyrics set by Jay Leonhart in what was to be his last recording before his death. As one critic put it writing of this CD: "Even by her own high standards this is exceptional - it would be a worthy winner of any jazz vocal recording award of this year or any other year ". I have to agree. Malcolm Frazer See also the advertisement on page 31 of this issue.

‘THE PRISONER’ Music used in the 1960s TV series Various composers and orchestras Silva Screen FILMCD 601, 602, 603. In 1989 Silva Screen issued the first CD of library tracks used in this cult TV series, and others were to follow in the early 1990s. They have now been repackaged and reissued, although it is likely that keen fans of the show will already have them in their collections.

JOLY BRAGA SANTOS Symphonies 1-6 Marco Polo 8.223879, 8.225087, 8.225216, 8.225233 Bournemouth & Portuguese Symphony Orchestras conducted by Alvaro Cassuto. Classic FM may be repetitive and at times annoying but it does play a greater variety of tuneful music than BBC Radio 3. Having gone to bed early a few months ago (a rare event in itself), I tuned to Classic FM in despair at the Beeb and immediately propped up my pillow and began to take notice of a composer quite new to me. In effect Joly Braga Santos is a Portuguese George Lloyd and his early symphonies are sheer delight, full of warm, expansive and extrovert colours. Very approachable and hugely enjoyable music for those not yet attuned. Marco Polo brands itself as the "label of discovery" and so it is. Try this composer’s early music and see for yourself. Peter Worsley

FAIRY TALES & OTHER WORKS Vyacheslav Grokhovsky Campion CAMEO 2016 Moscow Radio Symphony Orchestra conducted by the composer. Russian Caprice; The Enchanted Wanderer; Hans Andersen Fairy Tales (The Steadfast Tin Soldier, Thumbelina, The Emperor’s New Clothes); Gypsy Rhapsody. Can there be anyone reading this review who has ever heard of this Russian composer born in 1945? Unlikely because this is the first time his music has been heard over here and the best description I can think of is to liken him to a modern Tchaikovsky. Very Russian and expansive in style and all the better for it. If you like traditional Russian romantic fare then you will enjoy this.Edmund Whitehouse

BRITISH COMPOSER SERIESBill Worland Campion CAMEO 2017 City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Gavin Sutherland. Curtain Up!; Broadstairs Suite (Viking Bay & Pierremont Park, Snuff & Nonsense, Pavilion Waltz, Serene Place, Bleak House & Joss Bay); Sandman Serenade; Paths of Peace; Intermezzo 45 (Michaela, Little Ballet, Balalaikas, Finale); For Aida; Rhapsodie Tristesse; Amaro Dolce; Honky-Tonk Town; Midnight in Manhattan. Those already familiar with the composer’s Marco Polo disc can look forward to more thoroughly enjoyable light music in the best tradition. The "descriptive" Broadstairs Suite is excellent, much of it based on Victoriana and Charles Dickens while Intermezzo 45 was composed as the war drew to a close. In this first of what promises to be a fine new series deserving our full support, the other tracks are also good value especially the foot-tapping Honky-Tonk Town. Edmund Whitehouse

E. J. MOERAN Symphony in G Minor & SinfoniettaNaxos 8.555837 Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra conducted by David Lloyd-Jones. Stop! Don’t be put off by the title because the Symphonyis beautiful pastoral music based on the Norfolk landscape of the 1930s while the Sinfonietta is a bright and breezy nine-part piece of light music by another name composed during the last war. There is much tuneful serious British music to enjoy which is now sadly neglected by the BBC and Moeran is most definitely part of this wonderful legacy. Highly recommended for all who simply enjoy good music.

Peter Worsley

JUDY GARLAND: ‘JUDY IN LOVE / ALONE’.Zing! Went The Strings Of My Heart; I Can't Give You Anything But Love; Day In, Day Out; By Myself; Me And My Shadow plus 19 other songs. (USA) S&P Records 72435-37-823-2-0. 75:08. Jimmy McHugh, in his liner notes to "Judy In Love," called Judy Garland "The Star Studded Cinderella Girl." Both of these albums, marvellously restored to pristine clarity by Steve Hoffman, live up to McHugh's opinion. Both Nelson Riddle and Gordon Jenkins (the arrangers on these albums) had worked with Ms. Garland on tour in the 1950's). "Judy In Love" starts with a gem of a score for "Zing! Went The Strings Of My Heart," with a fantastic building of inner tensions by Garland combined with a combustible score by Riddle. A sensuous version of "I Can't Give You Anything But Love" is followed by an endearingly swinging "This Is It." There even some mischievous studio chatter before a swinging version of "Day In, Day Out." Alone explores a darker world with a deeply moving version of "Me And My Shadow," sung with probing sensitivity by Garland. A small jazz combo within the orchestra is heard to brilliant effect on "By Myself" and "I Gotta Right To Sing The Blues." "Among My Souvenirs" is a desolate tone poem for Judy Garland with accompanying chorus. No other CD can give you the jazzy optimist alongside the sublime ballad singer that made up the one and only Judy Garland. An essential recording for admirers of this great artist. Richard Jessen

Here are the tracklistings for some new Vocalion releases. All are expertly remastered by Mike Dutton from the original tapes, with attractive and informative booklets … in other words, the usual high quality product you have come to expect from Vocalion:

GISELE MACKENZIE and HELEN O’CONNELL Water Can’t Quench the Fire of Love, A Crazy Waltz, Lipstick Powder ‘n’ Paint, Give Me the Name Age Height and Size, When the Hands of the Clock Pray at Midnight; Gisele soloLe Fiacre, Johnny, Adios, Don’t Let the Stars Get in your Eyes, My Favourite Song, I’d Rather Die Young, Till They’ve All Gone Home, Seven Lonely Days, Till I Waltz Again With You; Helen solo Would I Love You, Green Eyes, Anytime, Slowpoke, Come What May, Be Anything, No Other Love, Night for Love, Rub-a-Dub-Dub. Vocalion CDLK4138, 59:27 mins.

EDMUNDO ROS and his Orchestra with The Mike Sammes Singers SING AND SWING: Guantanamera, Come Closer to Me, Fly Me to the Moon, If I Were a Rich Man, Sweet and Gentle, I Searched the World, Quiet Nights, Playtime in Brazil, Sway, The Girl from Ipanema, You too You too, The Fugitive, How Near is Love, Be Mine Tonight. SING AND DANCE: Amor amor, Perhaps perhaps perhaps, Granada, Frenesi, Green Eyes, Besame Mucho, Adios, Brazil, Tico-tico, Always in my Heart, Maria Elena, Perfidia, Magic is the Moonlight, Baia, You Belong to my Heart, Come to the Mardi Gras.Vocalion CDLK4140, 73:32 mins.

DICKIE VALENTINE WITH VOCAL REFRAIN: One Two Button Your Shoe, Bidin’ my Time, Sunday, There’ll Be Some Changes Made, Singin’ the Blues, Mary, Lucky Day, Carolina in the Morning, If I Knew I’d Find You, Back in your own Backyard, Everybody Loves my Baby, When it’s Sleepy Time Down South. OVER MY SHOULDER: Birth of the Blues, East of the Sun, Blue, I Kiss to Build a Dream On, Beautiful Eyes, Somebody Loves Me, Then I Love You, Gonna Get a Girl, Why Should I Go Home, Te Amo, When I Was Young, Day Dreams. Vocalion CDLK4147, 76:44 mins.

FIVE FABULOUS FEMALES Marion Ryan: Mangos, Sixteen Reasons, A Thousand Blue Bubbles, It’s You That I Love, I Wish You Love, Somebody, No Love But Your Love, An Occasional Man. Jean Campbell: Vaya Con Dios, In the Mission of St. Augustine, Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep, Two Hearts Two Kisses, The Mama Doll Song. Ruby Murray: Softly Softly, Heart, From the First Hello, I’ll Remember Today. Joan Regan: A Love Like Ours, Have You Ever Been Lonely, May You Always, Take Me in Your Arms. Lita Roza: What Am I Supposed to Do, Where Do I Go From Here, Stranger Things Have Happened, Keep Watch Over Him. Vocalion CDLK4148, 62:48 mins.

THE EILEEN FARRELL ALBUM: ‘IGOTTA RIGHT TO SING THE BLUES’. Blues In The Night; Wrap Your Troubles In Dreams; On The Sunny Side Of The Street; Taking A Chance On Love, plus 20 other songs. (USA) Sony Masterworks MDK 47255.75:53. No other testament to a singer could be made than this startling collection of songs recorded by the late Eileen Farrell between 1959 and 1961. I say startling because Farrell was customarily thought of as strictly a classical artist. Beneath this, Farrell was one of the greatest of classic pop singers, ranking with Frank Sinatra and company. Evidence of this are her appropriately torchy renditions of "Blues In The Night" and "IGotta Right To Sing The Blues. " There's also the uninhibited swinging hipster in "Somebody Loves Me" and "Taking A Chance On Love" complete with snapping fingers! Luther Henderson wrote the very tasty big band charts that provide strong accompaniments to Farrell's vocals. A magnificent tribute this underrated and under recorded singer. Richard Jessen

VIKKI CARR: ‘IT MUST BE HIM /FOR ONCE IN MY LIFE’ plus 2 Bonus Tracks.It Must Be Him; Can't Take My Eyes Off You plus 9 more songs and the complete November 1968 Persian Room concert. (USA) Collectables COL-CD-2850. 79:00. Collectables have released on CD two long overdue recordings from one of America's best artists, Vikki Carr. The first is her breakthrough album that received international acclaim while the second is Carr's superb yet long neglected concert album. What makes this a really attractive CD is that we get to hear studio versions of "It Must Be Him" and "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" with a chance at hearing "live" versions of the same songs. Unquestionably, there is more depth and drama in the live performances although both performances show the same profound regard for the lyrics. The Persian Room performance has the drive and intensity one expects from Carr's best performances. Although these are the original studio mixes, the sound is as flawless as the performances. Still radiantly beautiful and in great voice, Vikki Carr remains one of America's finest artists. Richard Jessen

Some recent releases in Vocalion’s acclaimed British Dance Band series:

CARROLL GIBBONS Volume 2 Hitting a New High Wake Up and Live, Swing High Swing Low, Give Me a Heart to Sing To, The Cat and the Fiddle, What More Can I Ask? etc…(24 tracks) Vocalion CDEA6073, 71:36 mins.

MRS JACK HYLTON AND HER BAND She Shall Have Music In a Gypsy Tea Room, I’ll Never Say "Never Again" Again, Vladivostock, Ev’ry Day You’re Away, You Are My Lucky Star, There’s No Day Like Today, etc… (27 tracks) Vocalion CDEA7077, 77:15 mins.

Like all the previous issues in this series, each of the above Vocalion CDs is a gem in its own right. As usual, compiler Bob Francis has been careful to include the well-known works by the band featured, but he has also included some rare items which will please collectors who may have previous releases in their collections already. The big bonus, of course, is the high quality of the remastering in the expert hands of Mike Dutton. And one must not overlook the informative CD booklets, attractively produced and written by people who admire and know the work of the artists concerned. All this, for around £6 per CD! David Ades

HILDEGARDE Volume 2 Songs From The Shows Pennies From Heaven, But Where Are You, For Sentimental Reasons, June Is Bustin’ Out All Over, Careless Rhapsody, The Saga of Jenny, This is New, My Ship, etc… (24 tracks) Vocalion CDEA6078, 71:36 mins. Following Volume 1 (CDEA6035) the emphasis now shifts to Hildegarde’s later career, mainly in the USA, where she worked with the likes of Guy Lombardo, Harry Sosnik, Bob Grant, Vernon Duke and Ray Sinatra. There is just one track with Clive Richardson, reminding us of her fruitful association with him. Before LPs arrived, albums of 78 rpm records gained popularity in the USA, often accompanied by sleeve notes. These are reproduced in the CD booklet, and to say that they are fascinating is a serious understatement.David Ades

THE BEST OF CILLA BLACK Alfie, Anyone Who Had a Heart, Step Inside Love, etc… EMI GOLD 541 4442. We mention this CD because the kind people at EMI sent us details, and there may be readers who are seeking a Christmas gift for an elderly uncle. Cilla is the butt of many jokes, but she is certainly a survivor, and one cannot deny that she was very successful with her chart hits in the 1960s. The CD booklet is better than usual from EMI, although it would have been nice if the orchestras had been credited. David Ades

DIANA DECKER I’m In Favour of Friendship, Poppa Piccolino, etc… EMI GOLD 541 4912. This release contains all of Diana Decker’s recordings and (as with CB above) the booklet is good – except for a lack of details regarding the orchestras and the other singers she performs with on some of the tracks. Diana Decker was fairly well-known in the 1950s (she also made films with the likes of James Mason and Shelley Winters), but the EMI publicity for this new release describing her as a ‘massive star’ is somewhat over the top! David Ades

As far as I can recall, it was around ten years ago that Zomba acquired the Southern Library of Recorded Music, but they do not seem to have exploited it to any great extent – until now. I do not have a complete listing of Southern titles, but from the limited information available to me it appears that many (if not all) of the tracks on these three CDs come from that library. All of the tracks were originally published in the 1960s, at a time when light orchestral mood music was still being written in a style that had become popular in the previous two decades. Of course, things were gradually changing, and more rhythmic sounds were creeping in (especially on Volume 1!), but these enjoyable compilations confirm that a lot of tuneful light music was still around. The details above give the full tracklistings, and even a casual glance at the composers will confirm the quality of the writing (and full marks to Zomba/Bruton for giving the first names of the composers in full – Southern often just provided initials on the original 78s). I think that one or two titles may have been altered, and in some cases the real name of the composer is given, rather than the pseudonym which appeared previously. Volume 1 is perhaps only for enthusiasts of more funky, way-out, jazzy sounds; if you have enjoyed the ‘Kitsch’ collections from some of the other production music companies, you may possibly also want to add this to your collection. Volumes 2 and 3 are far more melodious, and have wider appeal. All three CDs contain some real gems, but if your pocket can only afford one then I recommend Volume 3 for some very happy bright and light sounds. David Ades Bruton CDs are only available from the RFS Record Service – price £9 [US $18] each.

LONDON LANDMARKS: London Fields: 1. Springtime at Kew 2. Hampton Court Maze 3. St. James’ Park 4. Hampstead Heath (Phyllis Tate); London Landmarks: 1. Nelson’s Column 2.Tower Hill 3.Horse Guards Whitehall (Haydn Wood); London Salute (Philip Lane); Metropolis: 1. Boom & Bust 2.Solar City 3.Street Scene 4.The City Never Sleeps (David Watts); Rotten Row (Angela Morley); Festival of London March (Paul Lewis); On Hungerford Bridge - Saxophone Concerto (Christopher Gunning).Royal Ballet Sinfonia & Academy of St. Martin in the Fields – conductors Gavin Sutherland, Christopher Gunning and Paul Lewis ASV CDWHL2138, playing time 77 mins. At last! Forgive my jubilation but after years of campaigning I have finally acquired a CD which includes Phyllis Tate’s magnificent London Fields, a piece which I played many times to children at school who were all as enthusiastic as I was. Composed for the 1958 BBC Festival of Light Music it was much admired by people such as Steve Race but until now has never been commercially recorded. What a pity that neither Phyllis nor her musician husband Alan Frank lived long enough to see it. Composer Philip Lane is responsible for this majestic compilation which, apart from his own London Salute, includes the first recording of Haydn Wood’s London Landmarks since the days of Charles Williams’ 78rpms after the war. We all know Horse Guards Whitehall but here is an opportunity to complete the truly delightful set! Paul Lewis and David Watts chip in with splendid miniatures, as does Angela Morley (aka Wally Stott) with her familiar Rotten Row. The tour de force is Christopher Gunning’sSaxophone Concerto inspired by an evening stroll across Hungerford Bridge, the original footbridge not the wobbly one which came later! It’s a great CD and an absolute must for all lovers of British Light Music, if not for London Fields alone which, as a four movement suite, has rarely if ever been bettered. Edmund Whitehouse

One’s unbridled joy in having a modern recording of the entire London Landmarks Suite by Haydn Wood is in the event slightly tempered by some technical considerations. Listening to this disc on headphones one is struck by disconcerting variations in recording levels. Thus for Philip Lane’sLondon Salute to make its proper impact the volume has to be increased. So, too, in the Haydn Wood work where particularly in the first movement, The Horse Guards, Whitehall, one becomes aware that the violins in particular sound over bright and rather too few in number. As a recording this does not stand comparison with Ronald Corp’s version on HYPERION CDA 66968: ‘British Light Music Classics - 2’, where the sound has a far greater depth and range. Conversely, the Christopher GunningSaxophone Concerto, recorded at a different venue, has ample volume. Unfortunately, in no way should this really come under the category of Light Music and, at over 19 minutes, is overlong for its somewhat slender material, and many listeners will become bored with this piece long before the end. A warm welcome, however, for David Watts’ highly inventive Metropolis, Angela Morley’s enchanting Rotten Row, Phyllis Tate’s atmospheric London Fields Suite, and the Paul Lewis March. This disc, despite the above reservations, deserves a strong recommendation. One hopes, however, that ASV can be encouraged to produce new recordings of traditional Light Music with a decent sized string section - a Charles Williams disc would be an excellent starting point and is long overdue - and become a little less preoccupied with producing contemporary material some of which stretches an acceptable definition of Light Music to almost breaking point. Roger Hyslop

Available from the RFS Record Service for £10 [US $20].

ALFRED REYNOLDS Festival March; Suite – Alice Through The Looking Glass; Suite – The Toy Cart; Overture – The Taming of the Shrew; Suite and Ballet of the Roses from 1066 And All That; Suite of Five Dances The Duenna (arr. Sydney Baynes); Overture for a Comedy; The Sirens of Southend; Swiss Lullaby and Ballet; Suite – Marriage à la Mode; Three Pieces for Theatre Royal Ballet Sinfonia / Gavin Sutherland Marco Polo 8225184, 77:26 mins. Alfred Reynolds (1884-1969), conductor and composer, was a man of the theatre and this CD in Marco Polo’s admirable British light Music series gives a representation of his orchestral music for the stage, not in the original versions for often very small pit orchestras but in (with one exception) his own transcriptions for full orchestra. He was indeed a superb orchestrator as these pieces strikingly show. Most of the tracks are incidental theatre music, from The Toy Cart (1918, with a melting Romanza) to Alice (1947, for Stratford), and including much written for the Lyric, Hammersmith between 1923 and 1932 – three brisk overtures in the British comedy overture tradition and fine examples thereof, and other movements showing Reynolds’ gift for composing baroque pastiche (The Critic entr’acte, the Marriage à la Mode music and the dances from The Duenna, one of many 18th Century operas given new life by Reynolds). And there are the selection from 1066, a revue-cum-musical comedy and probably his most popular piece, and the surpassingly beautiful movements from Swiss Family Robinson. Lovely music – not quite as individual as Eric Coates or Robert Farnon, but well worth anyone’s attention – and the performances and recording are excellent advocacy for it. Philip L. Scowcroft

Editor: Philip has penned the excellent booklet notes for this new CD, which is available from the RFS Record Service for £12 [US$24].

LEROY ANDERSON and his ‘Pops’ Concert Orchestra Sleigh Ride, The Syncopated Clock, Serenata, A Tumpeter’s Lullaby, Promenade, Saraband, Jazz Pizzicato – Jazz Legato, The Waltzing Cat, Plink Plank Plunk, Belle of the Ball, Blue Tango, Horse and Buggy, The Phantom Regiment, China Doll, The Penny Whistle Song, Fiddle-Faddle Jasmine JASMCD 2580. In 1992 MCA Records/Good Music in the USA released ‘The Original Hit Recordings …’ on MSD 35334 (20 tracks), and some collectors have preferred these to the later stereo re-recordings by the maestro, which were released on the 2-CD set ‘The Leroy Anderson Collection’ – MCAD2-9815. This recent collection from the British company Jasmine once again restores the first versions to the catalogue, so anyone wanting Leroy Anderson’s own original mono performances now has the opportunity to acquire them. Selected comparisons between the MCA/Good Music CD from 1992, and the new Jasmine release indicate that they are virtually identical. Sadly neither CD gives any recording dates, but at least Jasmine does say a little about Anderson, whereas the centre pages of the MCA leaflet were literally blank. This is a welcome reissue; these recordings should always be available, so if they are missing from your own collection you now have the remedy in your own hands. David Ades This CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £8 [US $16].

EXHILARATION: Light Music with a LiltLondon Calling (Coates) London Symphony Orch. / Eric Coates; Cockney Capers (Crantock- pseudonym for Clive Richardson and Tony Lowry) Harry Davidson & his Orchestra; Down The Mall (Belton – pseudonym for Tony Lowry and Douglas Brownsmith) Charles Shadwell & his Orchestra; Wellington Barracks (Haydn Wood) Queen’s Hall Light Orchestra/ Sidney Torch; Fireside Fusiliers (Mayerl) Billy Mayerl & his Forte Fingers; Pedigree On Pomander Walk (Andre) Billy Mayerl & his Grosvenor House Band; Popular Song (From "Facade": Walton) London Philharmonic Orch./ William Walton; Daddy Long Legs (Wright) The Bohemians;Scrub Brother Scrub (Warner) Albert Sandler & his Palm Court Orchestra; Fingerbustin’ (Camarata)Kingsway Symphony Orchestra/ Camarata; Twinkle Toes (Raeburn) Wynford Reynolds & his Orchestra; Fairies In The Moon (Ewing) Wynford Reynolds & his Orchestra; The Dancing ClockOrchestre Raymonde; Montmartre (Haydn Wood) Debroy Somers Band; Folie Bergere Richard Crean & his Orchestra; A Cocktail of Happiness Wynford Reynolds & his Orchestra; Exhilaration (Charles Williams) Charles Williams & his Concert Orchestra; Comedians Galop (Kabalevsky) Queen’s Hall Light Orchestra/ Robert Farnon; Snowflakes Piano Duet by Rawicz & Landauer; Spinning Wheel (Rawicz) Sidney Torch & his Orchestra; Dance Of the Blue Marionettes (Leslie Clair) Organ solo by Sidney Torch; Parade of the Tin Soldiers New Light Symphony Orchestra; The Toy Trumpet Reginald Pursglove and his Orchestra; Pan-American Panorama(Philip Green) The Columbia Orchestra;American Hoe-Down (David Rose) David Rose & his Orchestra; Chicken Reel Boston Promenade Orchestra/ Arthur Fiedler.Memoir CDMOIR 554. Following the success of ‘Fiddle Faddle’ and ‘Red Sombrero’, Memoir Records have come up with a third selection of tuneful gems. I know that many light music enthusiasts are put off purchasing some albums because of the repetition of recordings already in their collections. However, they should not hesitate in this instance as many of the recordings are appearing on CD for the first time – several being from the Decca ‘Music While You Work’ series. Amongst the contributors are the orchestras of Harry Davidson, Debroy Somers, Charles Shadwell, Albert Sandler, Charles Williams, Richard Crean, David Rose, and Reginald Pursglove [who Light Programme listeners will recall as conductor of the Albany Strings]. We are also treated to the Queen’s Hall Light Orchestra conducted by Robert Farnon and Sidney Torch – the latter is also featured as cinema organist in The Dance of the Blue Marionettes. Of particular delight to me is the inclusion of the Orchestra of Wynford Reynolds [no relation] in three delightful numbers, two of which are from the pen of Reynolds himself; the third is an enchanting entr’acte entitled Fairies in the Moon – it’s worth buying the CD for this piece alone! It is one of two compositions on this album composed by the much neglected Montague Ewing – an album of his music is long overdue! We are also treated to the keyboard talents of Billy Mayerl and Rawicz and Landauer. This CD has been compiled by Jim Palm, who has also written the concise but informative notes. Ted Kendall who, unless my ears deceive me, does not appear to have changed the original acoustics by adding reverberation - a fact that will please the purists - has remastered the recordings. My only criticism is in the reproduction of the piano features Fireside Fusiliers and Snowflakes. Both would benefit from a little more volume and, in the case of the Billy Mayerl number [a particular favourite of mine], a crisper sound would have been preferable. Overall, I consider this to be one of the best light music compilations of recent years. It is bright, breezy and totally unpretentious – the perfect antidote to the 21st century!

Brian Reynolds

Available from the RFS Record Service for £10 [US $20].

THE SYMPHONIC ERIC COATES Cinderella, The Selfish Giant, The Three Bears, Miniature Suite, London Everyday, Joyous Youth, The Dam Busters BBC Philharmonic Conducted by Rumon Gamba Chandos CHAN9869, 79:27 mins. It is wonderful to find that the music of the great Eric Coates is still considered sufficiently important to warrant expensive new recordings such as this. However much as we value the composer’s own interpretations (and thankfully we have been well served with reissues in recent years), it is always good that such works should continue to be in the current repertoire of leading orchestras, and attracting the attention of conductors of the calibre of Rumon Gamba. Readers will be familiar with most, if not all, of these Coates classics. Whether or not you decide to add this to your collection may depend upon the state of your finances, or your wish to preserve the memory of much loved performances from the last century. Whenever a new recording is made of any piece of music, somehow something different emerges. Tempi obviously vary even slightly, and the sound engineer’s balance of the orchestra may reveal a previously unheard instrument in a particular passage. Personally I feel that anyone who admires Coates should want to grab this CD with both hands, if nothing else to ensure that record companies still feel encouraged to commission new performances from today’s talented musicians. David Ades Chandos CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £12.50 [US $25] each.

A POPS CONCERT Paul Whiteman and his Orchestra NAXOS NOSTALGIA 8.120520 My Melancholy Baby; Washboard Blues; Sweet Sue; Among My Souvenirs; The Man I Love; High Water; La Golondrina; My Heart Stood Still; Together; Moonlight and Roses; La Paloma; Song of the Swamp; Southern Medley (My Old Kentucky Home, Carry Me Back to Old Virginny, Old Folks At Home); Jeannine. These recordings all date from 1927-29 when Whiteman was arguably in his heyday and include vocals by Hoagy Carmichael, Bing Crosby, Al Rinker and Jack Fulton. Originally 12" 78rpm records with a running time of 4 minutes each, they neatly bridge the gap between classical, jazz and popular music. For those who enjoy Whiteman’s style then this budget Naxos release will be most welcome while anyone who enjoys a jolly good foot-tapping tune will also be pleased to have it in their collection. Well done Naxos, more please.

Edmund Whitehouse Naxos CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £5 [US $10].

THE PERCY FAITH ORCHESTRA conducted by NICK PERITO Theme from ‘A Summer Place’; Love theme from ‘Romeo and Juliet’; Lara’s Theme from ‘Dr Zhivago’; A Man and a Woman; The Sound of Music; Love theme from ‘The Godfather’; Born Free; Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head; The Way we Were; Mon Oncle; Elvira Madigan theme; The song from ‘Moulin Rouge’; Hello Dolly; Moon River; Summer of ’42; Tara’s theme from ‘Gone With the Wind’; Never on Sunday; The Windmills of your Mind. Castle Pulse PLSCD 583. Although the CD booklet doesn’t make it clear (there are no notes), this is a reissue of the 1990s Percy Faith recreations by Nick Perito. Keen fans will probably already have them, but if you missed the original releases (which were quite expensive) here’s your opportunity to acquire 18 tracks at a bargain price. David AdesAvailable from the RFS Record Service for £6 [US $12].

THE RED SHOES – Music from the films of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger Vaughan Williams – Prelude and Epilogue from 49th Parallel; Allan Gray – A Matter of Life and Death, The Life & Death of Colonel Blimp, A Canterbury Tale; Brian Easdale – Black Narcissus, The Red Shoes, Gone to Earth, The Small Back Room; Jacques Offenbach – Tales of Hoffman. Various orchestras, etc. CD41 Publishing, CD41-002. 74:00 mins. The era 1941-51 is well within the great period (c. 1935-1960) of British films and film music, so this release, which draws on film soundtracks (including some wholly or mainly spoken excerpts) and commercial recordings from the 1940s, is of particular interest. 49th Parallel was Vaughan Williams’ first film commission and these expansive extracts will surely please. Allan Gray, Polish-born, was well respected for his film music and his work for the recorded music libraries – his music for these three films (the Prelude to A Matter of Life and Death is played here by the Queen’s Hall Light Orchestra under Charles Williams) make pleasing listening. More distinguished are the Brian Easdale items, especially The Red Shoes music which, though recorded by Columbia at the time (and still sounds well here) has surprisingly never quite caught on. Posterity has largely forgotten Easdale (he died as recently as 1995), which is a pity. The recordings naturally show their age but the transfers have been well done and the booklet contains much fascinating information. Recommended. Philip L. Scowcroft This CD can be obtained for £10.00 from J. Nice, 1 Spinney Close, Beetley, Dereham, Norfolk, NR20 4TB, England (telephone/fax 01362 861009. More information from website: www.ltmpub.freeserve.co.uk The EMI collection of British Film Music of the 1940s and 1950s was deleted several years ago, but copies are still available from the RFS Record Service for £12 [US$24].

JELLY ROLL MORTON Piano Rolls Stratford Hunch, Big Foot Ham, New Orleans Joys, Perfect Rag, Tom Cat Blues, State and Madison, Kansas City Stomp, etc… 22 tracks. Shellwood SWCD22, 72:11 minutes. The first 17 tracks are new roll re-creations from original 78rpm records, cut by Mike Meddings. Shellwood obtained a 1912 Aeolian 88 note Pianola push-up, which has been restored to near perfection. After pushing it up to a good grand piano they found an expert pianolist, Julian Dyer, to play the rolls. They succeeded in eliminating all extraneous mechanical noise, and two of the tracks are premiere CD recordings. All in all this is an enterprising release which should fascinate anyone interested in this kind of music. David Ades Shellwood CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £10 [US $20] each.

BRIGHOUSE AND RASTRICK BAND Popular Classics Dance of the Tumblers, Elvira Madigan Theme, The Padstow Lifeboat, Capriccio Espagnol, Pie Jesu, Sutherland’s Law Theme, Ravel’s Bolero, etc… Grasmere GRCD115. The Brighouse and Rastrick are one of Britain’s top brass bands, with a reputation that extends far beyond this island. If I am honest, I have to say that the light classics chosen for this CD do not particularly appeal to me, but one has to admire the musicianship of all the players. I am sure that there are many brass band admirers who will not hesitate to add this new release to their CD collection. David Ades

GEORGE GERSHWIN Gershwin in Hollywood, An American in Paris, Cuban Overture, Porgy and BessNew Zealand Symphony Orchestra conducted by James Judd Naxos 8559107, 65:09 mins. This new CD falls into the category: "if you want this music, it is probably already in your collection". In other words, at its budget price it has to be accepted as an introduction to Gershwin for the uninitiated. The masterpieces are, of course, An American in Paris and Porgy and Bess. To my mind, Gershwin’s Cuban Overture only briefly comes alive, and it is not surprising that it is one of his lesser-known works. The opening track Gershwin in Hollywood could be so much better: unfortunately Robert Russell Bennett’s arrangements are disappointing and only occasionally reveal any imagination or sparkle. The orchestra sound bored with it all, and I must confess that I was, too. But, I say again, at a budget price of around £5, it is a great chance to get acquainted with the orchestral Gershwin. David Ades

BRITISH SYMPHONIC COLLECTIONVol. 10Symphony No. 2 by York Bowen (1884-1961);Symphonic Rhapsody "Spring" by Frederic Austin (1872-1952); Symphonic Movement "Genesis" by Edgar Bainton (1880-1956). (Denmark)CLASSCD 404. Can you remember when serious music was tuneful and enjoyable and when the listener did not need a crystal ball or an IQ of 250 to understand what was going on? Well here it is again! The work by York Bowen is a world premiere recording and all the better for that, while Austin and Bainton are rarely heard today, thanks to the self-opinionated gurus who belittle anything which is not discordant. Well worth a listen if you enjoy serious tuneful music and what’s more they’re all British! Edmund Whitehouse Classico CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £12.00 [US $24] each.

BRITISH SYMPHONIC COLLECTIONVol. 11 A Celebration of Malcolm Arnold’s 80th Birthday.Rinaldo & Armida (ballet suite); Little Suite No. 2; Homage to the Queen (ballet suite); Concerto for Organ & Orchestra. Royal Academy of Aarhus Symphony Orchestra conducted by Douglas Bostock(Denmark)CLASSCD 424. This unusual disc comprises 21 miniatures none of which lasts more than five minutes with several less than two! Apart from the Little Suite they are all world premieres but unmistakably Malcolm Arnold whose lush brass sounds remind us of his many dramatic film scores. Isn’t it amazing how much good music there is out there just waiting to be recorded. Well done Classico for taking the risk. More please! Edmund Whitehouse

ERIC PARKIN (piano) : Reginald King – piano piecesSong of Paradise; Humoresque; Sentimental Interlude; Pierrette on the Balcony; Beside the Lake; Polka Piquant; In Bluebell Land; Prelude in D; Tropical Moonlight; Passing Clouds; One Summer Day; Windflowers; Where Water Lilies Dream; Julia; The Haunted Ballroom (Toye, arr. King); Summer Breezes; Lilacs in the Rain; Elegy; Marionette; Whispering Violin; Meditation; Money Spider; Green Valleys; Yorkshire Relish; June Night on Marlow Reach; Moonlight Reverie; Prelude in A; Three Miniatures; Cynthia; A Prayer at Eventide.Shellwood SWCD17 (2 CDs) 108 mins.What a delightful collection this is! Light music lovers struggle to find recordings of Reginald King’s compositions today, but here Shellwood treat us to no less than 34 charming works, performed with warmth and affection by Britain’s foremost pianist. In recent years Eric Parkin has become renowned for his rediscoveries of the piano works of Jerome Kern, George Gershwin and, most importantly, Billy Mayerl. Reginald King deserves to be added to this illustrious list, and lovers of the piano cannot fail to be enchanted. I suspect that some will half remember hearing many of these works, especially Summer Breezes which was featured in the BBC Television Interlude film of the white kitten; the orchestral version was not taken from one of the usual recorded music libraries, so it has remained one of those elusive pieces missing from private collections. The well illustrated CD booklet notes by John Archer confirm King’s important contribution to the British musical scene in the middle years of the last century. This is an important release in all respects, and it will give a lot of pleasure. David Ades

THE CHEESY LISTENING ALBUM Wheels (cha cha) - Joe Loss Orchestra; Guatanamera - Geoff Love Orchestra; Let's face the music and dance - Nelson Riddle Orchestra; Music to watch girls by – Joe Loss Orchestra; Mas que nada - Manuel & The Music Of The Mountains; Mexican hat dance - Geoff Love Orchestra; Tequila - Joe Loss Orchestra; Do you know the way to San Jose - Ron Goodwin Orchestra; Quando quando quando - Manuel & The Music Of The Mountains; Desafinado - Laurindo Almeida & Bossa Nova All Stars; Girl from Ipanema – Geoff Love Orchestra; This guy's in love with you - Ron Goodwin Orchestra; Unforgettable - Starlight Strings; Can't take my eyes off you - Basil Henriques & The Waikiki Islanders; One note samba (remixed) - Geoff Love Orchestra; What the world needs now is love - Ron Goodwin Orchestra; Raindrops keep falling on my head - Joe Loss Orchestra; Man and a woman - Geoff Love Orchestra; Moon river - Nelson Riddle Orchestra; Music to drive by - Joe Loss Concertium; Walk on by - Ron Goodwin Orchestra; Let's do it (let's fall in love) - Nelson Riddle Orchestra; Peanut vendor - Manuel & The Music Of The Mountains; Y viva Espana - Pepe Jaramillo; Wives and lovers - Ron Goodwin Orchestra EMI Gold 5389412.This doesn't happen very often but EMI have just released a new all popular instrumental/orchestral CD featuring great British and US artists/orchestras like Geoff Love; Nelson Riddle; Manuel & The Music of the Mountains; The Starlight Strings; Ron Goodwin etc. The CD was released in the UK in June and it contains approx 71 minutes of what EMI call "25 very ripe instrumental easy classics"! I bought mine when I was visiting Guernsey in June and saw it in a record shop in St. Peter Port. I see it can also be bought at www.hmv.co.uk and www.amazon.co.uk etc. as well as the usual record stores. Chris Campbell

APOLLO SOUND: Test Card Music Volume 8 My Friends (G. Garanjan), At Sundown (Harvey Richards), Tierpark [Zoo] Promenade (Hans Bath), L’Amour Est Grand (J. Dieval), Flowers for Yvette (Harry Heinze), Santiago de Chile (Rudolf Maluck), Rockin’ Strings (William Gardner), Goodnight (arr. Sam Fonteyn), Fancy That (Gerhard Paul), Rockin’ Chair (Peter Hope), Irish Imp (William Gardner), Music in Mind (hendric Haydegg), Zambra Flamenca (John Carmichael), Moon Over Altea (L. Portner), In the Shade (Fernando Paggi), Ventuno [21] (Ulrich Sommerlatte), Talisman (Walter Franz), Blue Train (Roger Senicourt- actually Frank Chacksfield), Don Pedro (Horst Grosser), Machito (Heinz Hotter), Charley-O (T. Marino),Loose Cover (Sam Fonteyn), You are Mine (K. Veidt/P. Forester).Apollo Sound APSCD 228. Chris Churcher has assembled another fine collection for Apollo Sound in this impressive series, which has become a valuable source of material for the many collectors whose primary interests focus on the kind of bright and rhythmic 1960s/1970s sounds which used to be heard on television in the days before 24-hour programming, when gaps in the schedules were filled with test cards mainly for the benefit of engineers installing new sets. Once again the archives of Mozart Edition have provided all but one track, giving further evidence of that library’s strength in this kind of music. Readers will spot some familiar composers, while others will offer some pleasant surprises. I do not pretend to be an expert on test card music, but I know that some readers could probably give the days and times when these tunes were originally heard. They will need no further encouragement from me to snap up this latest compilation. David Ades This CD is available by mail order direct from Apollo Sound (see page 89); it can also be purchased from the RFS Record Service for £12.75 [US $25.50].

ALPHORN CONCERTOS Sinfonia Pastorella (Leopold Mozart), Dialogue with Nature and Concerto for Alphorn & Orchestra (Jean Daetwyler), Concertino Rustico (Ferenc Farkas). Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Urs Schneider. Naxos 8.555978. The 12 foot long alphorn may not be the most versatile of musical instruments but in expert hands it is quite capable of making pleasant and jolly sounds as witnessed by these ancient and modern musical offerings. It is certainly an unusual CD and all the more satisfactory for that. It is unlikely you will have heard any of the pieces before but each gives the lie to the myth that the alphorn has only two notes, one for calling animals and the other for contacting your goatherd girlfriend or boyfriend in the next valley! Edmund Whitehouse

CAREY BLYTON Film and Television Music Valse Musette, Girl Friday, Commuter Special, On the Go, Something in the Wind, Action for Orchestra, Blues in the Round, Neurosis, Man at Work, Noises of the Night, etc. plus television adverts for Birdseye Florida Orange juice, Mackintosh’s Quality Street, Lyons’ Harvest Pies, Nimble Bread, Elastoplast, and Lux Toilet Soap. Apollo Sound APSCD224. This is the first of four collections of the late Carey Blyton’s commercial music, which must have involved considerable research to acquire the recordings from a wide variety of different sources. Thus the first part of this CD concentrates on the composer’s commissions from several British recorded music libraries (Boosey & Hawkes, Weinberger, Synchrofox), leaving the remainder of the CD focussing on Blyton’s television commercials from 1964 to 1971. There are sometimes several different treatments of the same theme, and two of the tracks feature the finished product, complete with voice-overs. This offers a truly fascinating glimpse of the music business that will be unfamiliar to many. As a bonus, the CD booklet provides a wealth of very detailed information, even to the extent of listing full credits for the advertising agencies involved. An excellent release in all respects, and highly recommended to readers with an interest in this often hidden side of the world of production music. David Ades Apollo Sound CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £12.75 [US $25.50] each. They can also be purchased direct from Apollo Sound – see advertisement on page 89 of this issue.

GEORGE LLOYD The Serf (Orchestral Suite) and Cello Concerto (USA) Albany TROY 458 Albany Symphony Orchestra conducted by David Alan Miller. All George Lloyd fans will be delighted to learn of this posthumously issued CD, covering yet more of this fine tuneful composer’s later works. It’s very Lloydesque and yet altogether new at the same time. Who said serious music had to be dull to be enjoyed? Here is a man whose career was shattered by the war yet continued to compose melodious post-war masterpieces in the face of the avant garde lobby who refused to broadcast it. Well done George, you deservedly had the last laugh on them. Peter Worsley

PALM COURT ORCHESTRA Conducted by CHARLES JOB ‘Un Peu d’Amour’ Amparito Roca, Un Peu d’Amour, By the Light of the Silvery Moon, Love’s Garden of Roses, Wedding of a Rose, Nola, Alicante, Gavotte, Ecstasy Waltz, The Sunshine of your Smile, Song of Paradise, Neapolitan Serenade, Fairytale, Teddy Bears’ Picnic, Dreaming, Bird Songs at Eventide, Hiawatha, Entry of the Gladiators, Da Capo Palm Court Orchestra CD02, 63:22 mins. The music lovers of British Columbia in Canada are fortunate in having someone like Charles Job on the scene promoting quality light music through a regular series of concerts, and occasional CD releases such as this. I’m pleased to find Reginald King’s Song of Paradise, together with Leon Jessel’s Wedding of the Rose. The melody Dreaming is not the familiar Archibald Joyce piece, but a lesser-known work by Haydn Wood, who is also responsible for Love’s Garden of Roses, charmingly sung by Sally Braswell, mezzo soprano, who also performs two other numbers, The Sunshine of your Smile and Eric Coates’ Bird Songs at Eventide. Gerhard Winkler’s Neapolitan Serenade is a good choice (a perfect example of a tune you know, but have difficulty naming!). Lovers of the more traditional style of light music will thoroughly enjoy this collection, well played and conducted by musicians who have their hearts in what they are doing.David AdesThis CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £11.00 [US $22].

SIR VIVIAN DUNN Conducts Sir Arthur Sullivan Yeoman of the Guard – Overture, The Tempest – Incidental Music, The Merchant of Venice – Suite, Entrance and March of the Peers – from Iolanthe, Overture in C – In Memoriam Bournemouth Symphony, City of Birmingham Orchestra andBand of HM Royal Marines School of Music Eastney RHMSEC006. Paddy Dunn remains very active in the promotion of his late father’s recordings, and it is appropriate that he should have recognised the upsurge in interest in the music of Sir Arthur Sullivan. Although his work in the world of military music is unsurpassed, Sir Vivian Dunn was a master of so many different kinds of music, and we are fortunate that there exist so many recordings of his encounters with some of the finest symphony orchestras in the land. This new CD neatly brings together several different sessions, providing a tribute to Sullivan that will find favour with his many admirers. The CD booklet is packed full of interesting facts, making this a collection that will find itself in many appreciative homes.David Ades This CD is available from Eastney Collection, 60 Mayford Road, London, SW12 8SN, England – price £10 (UK, postage paid), £11.50 (overseas, postage paid). Credit cards accepted. Please mention the RFS when ordering.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK On the Town – Opening [Lyn Murray]; Sidewalks of New York [Shannon Quartet]; Broadway Melody [Ben Selvin]; Give my Regards to Broadway [George M. Cohan]; Park Avenue Fantasy, Stairway to the Stars [Paul Whiteman]; Forty Second Street [Boswell Sisters & Dorsey Brothers Band]; Slumming on Park Avenue [Red Norvo with Mildred Mailey]; Slaughter on Tenth Avenue [Lennie Hayton & MGM Orchestra]; Skyscraper Fantasy [Mantovani]; Manhattan Tower [Gordon Jenkins] etc… 22 tracks ASV Living Era CD AJA 5441, 75:01 mins. David Lennick and Ray Crick have come up with a fascinating selection of ‘New York’ music, which should sell very well in the USA. The choice of material is wide, offering something for lovers of show and film music, plus a light orchestral ‘standard’ and a comparatively rare Gordon Jenkins masterwork. Peter Dempsey’s booklet notes are entertaining, but he has missed a trick by not mentioning that Slaughter on Tenth Avenue is a classic Conrad Salinger arrangement, much sought-after by his admirers. Currently there is great interest in this unsung hero of Hollywood musicals, and his work is destined to receive much greater acknowledgement in the future. This version of Slaughter… comes from the 1948 MGM musical ‘Words and Music’. It was briefly available on an EMI CD of tracks from the film in 1990, but since then has been hard to find. In an ideal world it would be preferable to go back to the original tapes, because both the EMI and ASV transfers show their age. A more serious ‘howler’ in the booklet notes concerns Skyscraper Fantasy. We are told that it is the work of the famous clarinettist Sid Phillips, but readers of this magazine will know that the actual composer was Donald Phillips, the brilliant backroom boy also responsible for Concerto in Jazz, who died in 1994. This Mantovani 78 ofSkyscraper Fantasy has also recently appeared on CDs from Vocalion (CDEA6019) and Naxos (8120516). Other gems include Park Avenue Fantasy (incorporating Stairway to the Stars) by Paul Whiteman, Jo Stafford’s delectable Manhattan Serenade, Frank Sinatra’s Autumn in New York and Dick Powell’s Lullaby of Broadway. And what about Gordon Jenkins’ Manhattan Tower? Quite frankly, like baseball it hasn’t travelled well eastwards across the North Atlantic. You either love it or hate it!David Ades

THE WARTIME PICNICS and A COUNTRY CALENDAR by Peter Cork. Here is something really unusual, two privately produced double-CDs by a Kentish composer who once taught music to Dudley Moore! Both are semi-autobiographical because they recreate the war years and a time when our landscape was more gentle and perhaps more musical than it is today. The Wartime Picnics (90 minutes) is a musical relating a family love story in a poignant world, evolving around three picnics on the Kentish Downs during and after the Second World War. A young girl falls for a serving airman and their relationship gradually unfolds against the dark clouds of conflict. A Country Calendar (140 minutes) describes the British life and landscape in words and music from the Thirties, Forties and Fifties, long before motorways shortened journey times and made virtually everywhere accessible to everyone. The narrators are Rosemary Leach, Tim Pigott-Smith and Dennis Quilley, and the aptly-named producer is Piers Plowright, a well-known BBC personality and friend of the composer. Scenes range from the Cumbrian Lakes to the coastal paths of Cornwall and events from August Bank Holiday to the Battle of Britain and a frosty Christmas Eve. Each month and season is covered by separate tracks with the background music played by a pleasant light orchestra. Such ventures are to be encouraged and applauded in this day and age and at £13.99 for each double-CD they will not break the piggy bank. Available post free from Re-Collections, JEM House, Littlemead, Cranleigh, Surrey, GU6 8NH, ENGLAND. Tel. 0870-727-4104, Fax 01483-268889. Edmund Whitehouse

RON GOODWIN AND HIS ORCHESTRA ‘Music for an Arabian Night’ and ‘Holiday in Beirut’EMI 7243 5397892. These two fine albums caused quite a stir when they were released on Parlophone LPs back in the 1960s. Since then they have reappeared on CDs available mainly in the Middle East, but it is good to have them available again as a ‘2 on 1’ with general distribution. Ralph Harvey has contributed the booklet notes, and the original album covers are also reproduced. Don’t hesitate; if these vintage Ron Goodwin LPs are not already in your collection, you can correct that omission right away! David Ades

ALBERT SAMMONS – Delius Violin Concerto [w. Liverpool P.O., cond. Dr Malcolm Sargent – rec. 1944]/ Elgar Violin Concerto in B minor [w. New Queen’s Hall Orch., cond. Sir Henry Wood – rec. 1929] Dutton super budget CDBP9735, 66:30 mins. Two classic recordings from the Shellac Era, which deserve a place in every serious collection of British Music. Arguably the greatest of all English violinists, Albert Sammons [1886-1957] was also a highly respected teacher [his pupils included the youthful George Lloyd] remembered as a man of great kindness and integrity who referred not to use the fiddle as a mere box of tricks. Sadly, the onset of Parkinson’s disease in the mid-1940s enforced his early retirement from playing. Delius had dedicated his 1916 Concerto to Sammons, who also made the Elgar work [written for Fritz Kreisler] very much his own. Neither work is Light Music, of course, but so many readers have expressed admiration for these wonderful and highly original composers, that I make no apology for submitting this review. In any case, the Delius is a virtually uninterrupted stream of beautiful melody, while the Elgar is so full of marvellous themes and striking ideas – the "guitar effect" in the last movement cadenza is just one – that listeners will always be finding something new. Michael Dutton’s state-of-the-art transfers ensure these magnificent performances have never sounded better. For listeners whose appetites for more Sammons have been whetted, Michael Dutton has also produced an historic CD [Dutton Epoch CDLX7103] of chamber music by John Ireland, on which violinist and composer perform the Second Violin Sonata; and there is also an Hyperion issue [CDA67096: ‘The English Kreisler’] on which Paul Barritt and Catherine Edwards present 20 of Sammons own Salon Pieces in excellent style. John E. Govier

TED HEATH AND HIS MUSIC ‘Nice One Ted!’ Hindustan, Swannee River, Song of the Vagabonds, Two Guitars, Lyonia, Roumanian Roundabout, The Nearness of You, Colonel Bogey, Button Up Your Overcoat, Rag Mop, Blue Skies March, London Fog, Euphoria, Lady Byrd, Sidewalks of Cuba, Sophisticated Lady, Tequila, Move, Father Knickerbopper, Saxophone Mambo, You’re Nearer, Trumpet Voluntary, El Abanico, Post Horn Boogie, My Silent Love Memoir CDMOIR565, 68:40 mins. Ted Heath fans have been well served by various record companies in recent years, and it seems that the flow of new releases is accelerating. At the same time it is difficult for new compilations such as this to avoid duplications, and collectors will have to decide for themselves whether or not there are enough new delights on this CD to persuade them to part with their precious pounds. Personally I cannot imagine any true fans hesitating for long, because Memoir have come up with such a splendid production, thanks to the excellent sound restoration by Ted Kendall, and the superb booklet notes by Campbell Burnap. The gifted arrangers make one’s mouth water: Reg Owen, Eric Jupp, Reg Briggs, Norman Stenfalt, George Shearing, Bruce Campbell, John Dankworth, Phil Bates and Wally Stott (Roumanian Roundabout). Personnel, recording dates, matrix numbers, studios … all the information you could ever want is here. To paraphrase the CD’s title: "Nice One, Memoir!" David Ades

NAT KING COLE ‘Here’s To My Lady’ A Portrait of Jennie, That’s My Girl, Because of Rain, Nature Boy, Baby Won’t You Say You Love me, Here’s To My Lady, Song of Delilah, The Magic Tree, I’ll Never Say ‘Never Again’ Again, Unforgettable, Little Girl, Red Sails In The Sunset, Too Young, Put ‘Em in a Box, Lillette, I’m Hurtin’, A Little Bit Independent, Wine Women & Song, Mona Lisa, Lush Life, Lost April, Always You, My First and Last Love, Home Memoir CDMOIR566, 71:55 mins. I suppose that many of the comments I have made about the Ted Heath CD (above) equally apply to this new Nat King Cole release. Again, keen collectors may well already possess the majority of the tracks, but the fine remastering (by our friend Ted Kendall, of course), and the comprehensive notes (this time by Nigel Hunter) elevate this above the offerings from the major companies. It seems incredible, but true: often the major record companies who originally released recordings such as this seem to take little trouble to make their occasional reissues attractive, when it comes to information in their booklets. Thank goodness for the fact that in Britain we still have a thriving independent record sector, where true enthusiasts are able to impart their knowledge to fellow collectors. At least generations to come will be able to read something about the artists, the music and the recording history – and why their contributions to the art of recorded music are so important.David Ades Memoir CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £10 [$20] each.

TONY WHITTAKER ‘Keyboard Magic’ In Love For The Very First time, Call Me, Laura, Music of the Night, So Nice, Sands of Cairo, Warwick Waltz, Stairway to the Sea, All I Ask of You, Matrimony, Memory, The Boy From… , As Time Goes By, Cat’s Tail, Merry as a Grig, Abba Medley TWMS CD05/02. RFS member Tony Whittaker has produced an attractive collection of piano pieces, augmented on some tracks by bass, guitar and strings. You may have noticed Merry as a Grig in the listing above – an interesting choice, by Van Phillips, the arranger who produced some interesting dance band sounds in the 1930s, then went into production music, but eventually achieved greater fame as an acclaimed photographer. It is also nice to find less hackneyed numbers – In Love For the Very First Time makes a good opening. All in all, an enjoyable selection of music which will please piano fans. David Ades This CD is available direct from Tony Whittaker, 83 St. Helen’s Road, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, CV31 3QG, England – price £10.00. You can also order via Tony’s website: www.tonywhittaker.co.uk

GLORIOUS VICTORY: Willcocks – Guards Armoured Division; Alford – Eagle Squadron, By Land and Sea, Holyrood, The Vanished Army, Army of the Nile, The Standard of St. George;Panella – On the Square; Kendall – Glorious Victory; Kelly – Arnhem, Arromanches; Sousa – Liberty Bell, The Stars and Stripes Forever; Eley – Duke of York; Zehle – Wellington; Rhodes – Golden Spurs; Bagley – National Emblem; Strauss – Radetzky March; Stanley – Alamein. Kings Division Normandy Band, Director of Music Captain Gary Clegg Plantagenet Music PMRD9425, 65:00 mins. A superb, well planned compendium of military marches, some old favourites, others less familiar, recorded in the ample acoustic of St. Michael’s Parish Church, Kirkham, Lancashire. A generous representation of the martial music of the English ‘March King’ Kenneth J. Alford including his impressive slow march By Land and Sea in which A Life on the Ocean Wave is cleverly interweaved. Two of Sousa’s best, although the rendering of The Stars and Stripes Forever is surprisingly rather small scale and lightweight, with a sharp accelerando towards the end. There is also a rather curious arrangement by Sharpe of the Radetzky March.There’s a fascinating example of an early 19th century march Duke of York by Christopher Eley, a Hanovarian Bandmaster brought to England by the aforementioned Duke. Bandstand favourites such as Panella’s On the Square and Bagley’s National Emblemintermingle with less well-known (at least for this listener) but nonetheless impressive marches by the likes of G.H. Willcocks (Director of Music, Irish Guards 1938-48); Albert Kelly (who served as Bandmaster of the Royal Sussex Regiment); Samuel Rhodes (one time Director of Music with the Scots Guards with no less than 44 years’ service with Army bands); and Leo Stanley (the pen name of Randolph Ricketts, brother of Frederick Ricketts, better known as Kenneth Alford!). Despite the very minor quibbles above, all these marches are played with an impressive degree of aplomb, precision and professionalism, and one hopes that the Kings Division’s next CD won’t be too long in the making. Roger Hyslop Plantagenet CDs are available from: Plantagenet Music Ltd., 90 Holgate Road, York, YO24 4AB, England – telephone orders 01904 64710. Also available from Discurio, 46 High Street, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1LD, England – tel/fax 10634 845222 www.discurio.com

THE KING’S SQUAD Jager – Esprit de Corps; Gray – Thunderbirds; Donajowsky – Preobrajensky Blankenburg Action Front; Menken – A Whole New World; Willcocks – Sarafond; Charles Williams – Blue Devils; etc… Band of HM Royal Marines Commando Training Centre / Capt. N.J. GracePlantagenet PMRD 9426. Here’s a military band with a difference! An audio representation of the Pass-Out Parade of the Kings Squad – the senior recruit squad in Royal Marines training, recorded at the Commando Training Centre, Lympstone, Devon, with a spoken narration by a certain Lord (better known as Paddy) Ashdown of Norton-sub-Hamdon in Somerset– a former Royal Marines Officer between 1959 and 1972; his contributions are brief and succinct and should not become too irksome on repeated playings. The doyen of British military musicians, Lieutenant Colonel Sir F. Vivian Dunn (who was appointed Director of Music of the Portsmouth Division Band in 1931, at the incredibly early age of 22, and completed an illustrious career with the Royals as Principal Director of Music at Deal), is represented by several of his very attractive arrangements, includingPreorajensky, The Globe and Laurel, Where ere You Walk and Sarie Marais. Since the playing of the Royal Marines bandsmen display their usual enviable musical prowess, and the recording is excellent, this CD must be strongly commended. Roger Hyslop Plantagenet CDs are not available through the RFS Record Service, but details of how to obtain them can be found at the end of the previous review.

JOHNNY HARRIS ‘Movements’ Fragments of Fear, Reprise, Stepping Stones, Something, Give Peace a Chance, Footprints on the Moon, Light My Fire, Wichita Lineman, Paint It Black + bonus tracks Warner Bros 8122-73602-2 [also on vinyl as 2-LP set: 8122-73601-1]. 43:35 mins. This album really needs no introduction. It was big in its day but has become even bigger in recent years after it was rediscovered when tracks were sampled on modern dance records resulting in original copies changing hands for up to £50. And after just one listen it’s very easy to see why! The opening track is taken from the score of the obscure psychological thriller "Fragment Of Fear" and has a deliciously chilling melody that will weave its way into your brain and stay there. Over a distorted rhythmic shuffle a flute is joined by strings, wah-wah guitar and a bubbling Hammond Organ resulting in a non-stop groove with a warm, rich sound which is worth the cover price alone. However it is the next track "Stepping Stones" which usually gets most attention. This fast and frantic jazz piece was used for a chase sequence in the same movie and sees a repeated screaming flute motif (played by Harold McNeil) across a hard percussive backing offset by stabbing strings and guitar, resulting in a funky sound which wouldn't be out of place in the score to a black cop movie such as "Shaft" or "Superfly". There are some quieter moments too including the delicately haunting "Footprints On The Moon" complete with angelic choir choruses, and some superb covers including "Something" which Harris later reworked for Shirley Bassey, "Wichita Lineman" and a truly amazing arrangement of the Rolling Stones' "Paint It Black" which owes more than a little to "Night On A Bare Mountain". The CD also features a colourful 24-page booklet covering the composer's long career in music and there are two bonus tracks including the groovy Lulu's theme which was used for the "Happening For Lulu" show where Harris acted as MD. NB: There are plans to follow this up with a reissue of Harris' other Warner Bros album "All To Bring You Morning". David Noades

Geoff Leonard was born in Bristol. He spent much of his working career in banking but became an independent record producer in the early nineties, specialising in the works of John Barry and British TV theme compilations.

He also wrote liner notes for many soundtrack albums, including those by John Barry, Roy Budd, Ron Grainer, Maurice Jarre and Johnny Harris. He co-wrote two biographies of John Barry in 1998 and 2008, and is currently working on a biography of singer, actor, producer Adam Faith.

He joined the Internet Movie Data-base (www.imdb.com) as a data-manager in 2001 and looked after biographies, composers and the music-department, amongst other tasks. He retired after nine years loyal service in order to continue writing.